SUBJECT
title
Authorizing the City Manager to approve the write-off of non-collectible patient accounts designated as charity care charges, in the estimated amount of $1,990,110.80, for services provided between October 1, 2023, and September 30, 2024, in accordance with the Charity Care Policy under the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Texas Ambulance Services Supplemental Payment Program (TASSPP). As a participant in this program, the City is eligible to receive an estimated reimbursement of $550,000.00 for charity care costs, with the final amount subject to the reduction percentage applied by the state. The effective date of this write-off is retroactive to September 30, 2024. Funds will be recorded under the Laredo Public Health Department Fund - Ambulance Fund.
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VIVA LAREDO PLAN ALIGNMENT
Alignment Rating: Strong
Supporting goal(s)/policy(ies):
Goal 7.1: Address the health needs of all residents in the region through collaboration and coordination among local, state, and binational entities.
Policy 7.1.1: Partner with local, state, and binational entities to prevent health-related problems through prevention programs and policies.
Goal 7.8: Improve access to medical care.
Summary of alignment: The proposed motion to authorize a write-off of $1,990,110.80 million in charity care charges under the Texas Ambulance Services Supplemental Payment Program (TASSPP) aligns strongly with the goals and policies of the Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan. Specifically, the action reflects the city's commitment to addressing the health needs of all residents through coordination with state agencies as articulated in Goal 7.1. By participating in a state-administered reimbursement program and applying an adopted charity care policy, the City of Laredo demonstrates compliance with Policy 7.1.1, which emphasizes preventive health initiatives and partnerships. Furthermore, the motion supports Goal 7.8 to “improve access to medical care” by eliminating financial barriers for patients without insurance or ability to pay, ensuring accessibility to emergency services such as ambulance transport. The initiative also reflects the collaborative intent of Policy 7.8.4, which calls for cooperation with non-profit and governmental entities to improve medical service availability.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION
On November 06, 2023, Council approved Motion.
BACKGROUND
On September 16, 2019, City Council approved to adopt and participate in the Texas Ambulance Services Supplemental Payment Program (TASSPP) charity care reimbursement initiative managed by the State of Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). As part of this approval, the Council adopted a charity care policy for EMS patient accounts effective October 1, 2019. As part of that policy, the Laredo Fire Department may provide healthcare services to patients without the expectation of reimbursement (charity care services) if the patient meets the charity care guidelines, does not have third party insurance, and is determined to be eligible to be a charity care patient. As required by the adopted policy, the City of Laredo Fire Department is recommending an approximate write-off for charity care charges totaling $1,990,110.80 for dates of services from September 1, 2023 through October 31, 2024. The recommended write-off amount must be approved with an effective date of September 30, 2024 per program requirements.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Staff recommends that Council approve the Motion.
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Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Year: 2025
Budgeted Y/N?: Y
Source of Funds: General Fund - Ambulance
Account #: N/A
Change Order: Exceeds 25% Y/N: N/A
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The revenue account 101-0000-115-1200 and the deferred revenue account 101-0000-222-1200.