Monticello looks to recoup Medicaid expenses for ambulance service

     In an effort to recoup more money from Medicaid services for Monticello Ambulance Service calls, the city council approved an agreement with Public Consulting Group (PCG).

     During the Nov. 2 Monticello City Council meeting, Ambulance Administrator and Police Chief Britt Smith shared some information with the council.

     “The payments received from Medicaid are far less than the actual billed rates,” Smith explained. “To combat this shortfall, a combination state/federal supplemental payment program has been created, called the GEMT (Ground Emergency Medical Transportation) program.”

     Government-operated ambulance transport services are eligible to participate. Smith said he’s been busy compiling and submitting service data as it relates to Medicaid patients, along with service revenues and expenditures, equipment, and personnel expenses.

     “This process is fairly complicated,” noted Smith.

     The deadline to submit is Nov. 30, 2020, and Smith said while it’s an aggressive deadline, he plans to follow through. Submission this cycle will allow the Monticello Ambulance Service to receive payment in July 2021. Initial estimates put the federal share at over $26,000. PCG will retain 9 percent as their service fee, an estimated $2,300. Smith stipulated that PCG doesn’t get paid until the city gets paid.

     The council approved a three-year agreement with PCG.

     “It’s a great way to get payment for our shortages,” Smith said. “That’s lost revenue we haven’t been getting before. There’s no reason not to participate in this program.”

In other city business:

   • The council approved the purchase of a used copy/fax/scanning machine for City Hall from Koch Office Group at a cost of $3,500.

     • The council approved a plat of survey for two parcels on John Drive. Council member Tom Yeoman abstained as owner of the property.

     • Smith reported that the Seventh Street sidewalk project near the Breckenridge Addition is underway. He expects it to be completed yet this fall, weather permitting.

     • The council approved the liquor license renewal for The Jitney.

     • The council approved the second reading of an ordinance, increasing the number of people on the Parks and Rec Board from five to seven.

     • The city is looking for a resident to volunteer time to serve on the Jones County Landfill board (Solid Waste Management Commission). This position represents the City of Monticello.

     With City Administrator Doug Herman resigning, the seat remains open.