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4w ago

San Diego Council Approves 17% Ambulance Fee Increase for Private Insurers

Leaders say the rate adjustment covers rising private contract expenses ahead of potential in-house ambulance operations.

Ambulances from Falck and AMR were parked in the driveway of the Emergency & Trauma Center at Scripps Mercy Hospital in San Diego on Tuesday, June 3, 2025. (Nelvin C. Cepeda / The San Diego Union-Tribune)
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Overview

  • The phased increase begins July 1, 2025 with a 7% hike, followed by 5% boosts in July 2026 and July 2027 to reach a cumulative 17%.
  • Only patients with private insurance will face higher charges, while Medi-Cal, Medicare and self-pay rates remain unchanged under state caps.
  • The current ALS Level 2 transport fee of $3,151.32 will rise to $3,371.91 next month, $3,540.31 in 2026 and $3,717.53 by 2027.
  • San Diego must pay Falck USA and American Medical Response an extra $4.7 million next fiscal year due to higher hourly rates in its private alliance model.
  • The unanimous vote advanced the fee hikes without the required committee hearing, violating City Council policy 100-05.