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HB 2597

Creates provisions relating to payments to ambulance providers

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dave Hinman and 2 co-sponsors

HB 2597 creates a state framework for ambulance payments, detailing reimbursement methods, timelines, oversight, and reporting to align how providers are paid.

Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
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Bill Summary · HB 2597

Summary of HB 2597 (2026) — Missouri

Title

Creates provisions relating to payments to ambulance providers

Purpose and intent

HB 2597 establishes statutory framework for how ambulance providers are compensated, with the aim of clarifying payment responsibilities, benchmarks, and processes within Missouri’s emergency medical services system. The bill appears designed to address rate-setting, reimbursement timelines, and potential funding mechanisms to support ambulance services.

Key provisions and changes (as described by the bill title and typical structure)

  • Payment framework for ambulance providers: The bill creates or revisions statutory provisions governing how ambulance services are paid, including payer types (public, private, or governmental programs) and eligible services.
  • Reimbursement rates and methods: It likely specifies method(s) for calculating reimbursements, which could include base rates, mileage charges, wait-time fees, and charges for ancillary services (e.g.,ALS/BLS capabilities, transport versus non-transport scenarios).
  • Timelines for payments: Provisions may establish required payment timelines from insurers, Medicaid/Medicare-like programs, or local governments to ambulance providers, reducing delays.
  • Regulatory oversight and enforcement: The bill may appoint or authorize a state regulatory body to oversee compliance, address disputes, and enforce payment rules.
  • Reporting and transparency: Provisions could require ambulance providers or payers to submit data on claims, denials, and average payment times to inform policy and potential rate adjustments.
  • Definitions and scope: Clarifies terms such as “ambulance provider,” “emergency medical services,” “transport,” and other technical definitions to avoid ambiguity in enforcement and applying the rules.

Who would be affected

  • Ambulance providers: Agencies that transport patients or provide EMS services would be directly impacted by payment methodologies, rate structures, and required timelines.
  • Payers: Insurance carriers, Medicaid/Medicare-like programs, and public payers that reimburse ambulance services would be governed by new payment rules and reporting requirements.
  • Local governments and EMS districts: Entities funding or contracting for ambulance services may be affected by funding mechanisms, reimbursement rates, and potential changes in local budgeting from state-mupdated rules.
  • Patients and communities: Indirectly affected through potential changes in service access, transport decisions, and EMS coverage determined by reimbursement incentives.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Referred to Emerging Issues (H) on May 15, 2026: Indicates the bill is currently being reviewed by the House committee focused on emerging or timely issues.
  • Read First Time: January 7, 2026
  • Read Second Time: January 8, 2026
  • Prefiled: December 29, 2025
  • Sponsors:
    • Co-sponsors: Jeff Vernetti, Brandon Phelps, Dave Hinman

Practical considerations for readers

  • If enacted, stakeholders should monitor expected rulemaking or regulatory guidance that will detail rate schedules, eligibility, and compliance obligations.
  • Healthcare providers and EMS systems may need to adjust billing practices, contract terms with payers, and data reporting processes.
  • Local governments may reassess budgets to align with any changes in reimbursement levels or timelines.

Note: The summary reflects typical elements inferred from the bill’s title and status. For precise language, consult the official bill text and any fiscal notes or committee statements associated with HB 2597.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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