Navigating Air Ambulance Costs: No Surprises Act Shields Catalina Residents and Visitors

AVALON — For residents, boaters, and visitors to Catalina Island, the specter of emergency medical airlifts has long been accompanied by the potential for daunting financial burdens. However, a significant shift in healthcare regulations has dramatically altered this landscape, providing crucial protection against unexpected costs. Catalina Island Health (CIH) is now emphasizing the importance of the No Surprises Act, a federal regulation that safeguards patients from exorbitant balance bills and surprise charges related to emergency medical care, including air ambulance transport. Historically, air medical memberships were a common consideration for those on Catalina, anticipating the possibility of emergency transport to mainland hospitals via services like Mercy Air. The cost of such transport could be substantial, particularly in situations where Catalina Island Health’s facilities couldn’t provide the necessary care. However, since January 1, 2022, the No Surprises Act has effectively transformed this financial landscape for insured patients. “The No Surprises Act didn’t change the way we handle emergency situations at CIH,” stated Jason Paret in response to The Log’s question about the Act’s impact on Catalina Island residents and visitors. He clarified, “The key provision of it is balance billing or surprise medical bills. We bill for both the physician and the hospital...