EMSA Rate Hike Vote On Tulsa City Council's Agenda

The Tulsa City Council is expected to vote Wednesday on a request from EMSA to raise how much it costs you to take an ambulance to the hospital.

Back in August, EMSA's director told the city council the increase is needed, in part, to cover legal fees for a lawsuit.  EMSA is facing a federal lawsuit, accused of kickbacks.

8/24/2017 Related Story: EMSA Director Asks Tulsa City Council For Rate Increase

The plan is to make up the legal fees by upping the cost of an ambulance ride.

EMSA is asking the council to approve a $300 rate increase.  That would bump the price, from $1,400 to $1,700 per trip.

The lawyers told councilors they don't have much choice because the cost is a city obligation. 

The increase will mainly impact folks with insurance, who aren't EMSA subscribers.