7/5/1994 - Laserfiche WebLink

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s ® � don't need a certificate to bring the aircraft into this county for pick-up and delivery. The Chairman opened the public hearing and asked if anyone wished to be heard in this matter. William Koolage of Vista Gardens Trail stated he did not see a need for this service at the present time. He felt this would decrease hospital revenue, and we have enough problems at the hospital as it is. He was opposed to this application. Jerry Koziol, senior vice president of planning and development at Indian River Memorial Hospital, advised that currently the hospital's transport service handles most interfacility transports within our community. There is no need to grant a certificate. The hospital would be amenable to supporting a mutual aid agreement with Able for assistance only when we cannot meet the need ourselves. Gary Burdsall, president of Able Aviation, stated he saw a need for fixed -wing, long-range transport in our four -county community and a need for additional ground ambulances. The State of Florida states that ambulance companies are only to transport within the counties from which they have received a Certificate of Need. He argued that other companies do provide transport in this county. Mr. Burdsall requested the Board to consider his application for a Certificate of Need because this service will provide additional service to this community at no cost to taxpayers. They will transport patients to aircraft, which allows better continuity of patient care. Further, in the spirit of health care reform, the availability of private ambulances can help reduce the tremendous cost of patient transport. They will take the indigent as well as those able to pay. Issuing a certificate would be a positive move toward preparing for growth in the community. A Certificate of Need must be renewed, and if the County is not happy with the service, the Board need not renew the certificate. He explained that although Indian River Hospital Transport feels his company would be competing for patients, Able would just be available upon request. The company does not plan to establish a base of operations or office in Indian River County, just provide ambulance service. Mr. Burdsall thanked the Board for the opportunity to speak. He felt the residents of Indian River County will be the winners if his request is granted. If the request is not approved, he respectfully requested a 30 -day JUL 5 21 50DK W P E 15?