VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) – Starting July 1, 2025, Virginia Beach Rescue EMS will begin billing patients’ health insurance for ambulance transports, marking a significant change for residents and visitors.
Until now, Virginia Beach was the only Hampton Roads city that did not charge for ambulance rides. The “compassionate billing” program was approved last year as part of the City of Virginia Beach FY26 Budget.
Virginia Beach residents will not be liable for any remaining balances after insurance, co-deductibles, or copayments. However, non-residents will be billed for any remaining amounts after insurance coverage.
How Virginia Beach plans to bill for ambulance rides
Uninsured individuals will have the option to submit a waiver form to avoid financial hardship, ensuring that emergency medical services remain accessible to everyone. City officials estimate that this new billing program could generate at least $14 million annually, providing a substantial financial boost to the city’s emergency services, while maintaining emergency service accessibility for its residents.
EMS Billing Program Rates
Current Schedule of Service Fees
- Advanced Life Support (ALS) without ambulance transport – $200
- Basic Life Support (BLS) with ambulance transport – $583
- Advanced Life Support (ALS) with ambulance transport – $701
- Advanced Life Support, Level 2 (ALS2) with ambulance transport – $997
- Ground transport mileage (GTM): $13/mile
Starting July 1, If you need to provide insurance or payment information regarding your transport or have specific questions about your EMS bill:…