Yes, the state of South Dakota is making an effort to assist ambulance services, according to Spearfish Ambulance Service Executive Director Brian Hambek. But it’s not enough to have a significant impact on major issues effecting the industry. Hambek says insurance companies have to increase reimbursements.
The South Dakota Department of Health has been diligently working to modernize EMS services across the state and remains actively engaged with local services, said Tia Kafka, the Department’s marketing and outreach director. In FY22, Governor Kristi Noem and the South Dakota Legislature approved $20 million to support EMS. Throughout 2023, the Department of Health implemented three statewide initiatives: Telemedicine in Motion, LIFEPAK replacement and Regional Service Designation.
While the state is investing millions to help Emergency Medical Services, ambulance directors say the dollars help, but the major problems remain.