EBS STAFF
BOZEMAN – Jan. 24 marked the closing
of the REACH Air Medical Services operation located in Bozeman. The
announcement comes after the organization observed a consistent lack of
reimbursement for its services. Only about half of the costs associated with air
transport patients were recovered from individuals who were covered by
Medicare, which make up over two-thirds of the organization’s clientele.
The
closure of the REACH base will not result in a complete cease of air transport
services in the area. Additional organizations in the area, that have the
capabilities, will assist as REACH is phased out. Approximately 300,000
patients are moved by air transport annually in the U.S.
