Directs counties to develop and maintain comprehensive county emergency medical system plans

New York counties must plan emergency care

Each New York county must develop and maintain an emergency medical services and ambulance plan with local governments and regional councils. Plans must identify providers, coverage gaps, needed service improvements, and how service will reach all residents. They must explain who provides care, how costs are assigned, and what local government actions are needed. Counties can use public, private, nonprofit, or combined service arrangements. Plans must be completed and sent electronically to state and regional reviewers within six months after the requirement takes effect. The law calls for a model plan on the state health department’s website. The department must give written feedback and any recommendations within 60 days of receiving a county plan. Counties do not have to adopt those recommendations, and the law does not guarantee new services or household payments.