TheNational Insurance is publishing today for public review a bill that will allow ambulance companies that transport mothers in labor to medical centers to receive payment from the National Insurance.
Currently, the legislation only allows the transport of mothers in labor by Magen David Adom (MDA) and without the possibility of financial reimbursement for other companies in the existing emergency systems in Israel.
The need to update the legislation stems from the recognition of structural changes that have occurred in Israel’s emergency services system since 1953, when Magen David Adom was the sole body operating and providing transport services. Today, there are additional authorized bodies operating in the field, and the move is intended to address availability issues, especially in areas where direct and immediate response is difficult, and also to provide equitable service to other licensed ambulance and emergency services operating in accordance with current reality. Opening the possibility of contracting with private ambulance bodies will allow mothers in labor to enjoy higher availability, while optimally utilizing the entire transport system currently existing in the country.
It should be noted that the amendment pertains only to mothers in labor, as the law on this matter restricted the provision of service to MDA only.
According to the amendment details, the National Insurance will be able to reach an agreement with any body holding a license to operate an ambulance from the Licensing Authority in the Ministry of Transport. The engagement with the new bodies will be carried out under strict supervision and control procedures, in accordance with the rules and conditions to be determined by the National Insurance. It should be noted that the expansion of the system is intended to ensure that the support provided to the public of mothers in labor will be the most professional and accessible.
The National Insurance stated: “The National Insurance Law is broad and encompasses various details in different fields. Although this is a law that changes frequently throughout the year, and an integral part of legislative changes is the need to adapt to current reality. Today, there are many licensed ambulances, and they also deserve financial reimbursement like any other company when they transport a mother in labor. This is the equitable and correct thing to do, and we hope that increased competition will lead to improved service for the public.”