IAIABC Supports State Authority to Regulate Air Ambulances for Work Comp
Enabling states to regulate air ambulance services under their workers’ compensation systems will encourage transparency, competition, and safety for injured workers. In a letter to the Air Ambulance and Patient Billing Advisory Committee (AAPB) within the U.S. Department of Transportation, the IAIABC recommended federal legislation clarifying that states can regulate air ambulances for workers’ compensation.
Currently, provisions of the Federal Aviation Act (FAA) and Airline Deregulation Act (ADA) present a conflict in state authority to set payment, utilization, or guidelines for air ambulance transport of injured workers. This has resulted in concerns about patient safety, balance billing, payment disputes, and extended legal battles.
Concerns about air ambulance services are not limited to workers’ compensation. The cost and utilization of air ambulance transport has gained national attention as billing charges have continued to rise. In response, the 2018 re-authorization of the FAA included the establishment of an advisory committee to protect consumers and enhance fee transparency for air ambulances.
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About the IAIABC
The International Association of Industrial Accident Boards and Commissions is a not-for-profit association representing government agencies charged with the administration of workers’ compensation systems as well as other workers’ compensation organizations in the private sector. Its mission is to find solutions to reduce harm and aid recovery from occupational injuries and illnesses. Learn more about the IAIABC at www.iaiabc.org.