If you switched to a new health plan this year under the State Employees Group Insurance Program, there are some important things to know about emergency ambulance services. As of November 15, the City of Champaign transitioned to a single ambulance provider, Carle Arrow Ambulance Service. Read more about the City Council decision. While some insurance providers may not be contracted with Arrow Ambulance, you can still receive coverage for emergency ambulance services.
- You will need to file a claim with your insurance company for ambulance services. Ambulance companies typically do not file claims directly on your behalf. After you receive a bill for the ambulance, submit it as a claim to your health insurance company. You can submit a claim online when you are logged into your health insurance website or call your health plan for assistance.
- In emergency medical situations, insurance will cover ambulance services at the in-network benefit level. Under the federal No Surprises Act, you cannot be balance billed (charged the difference between the billed amount and what insurance pays) for an emergency ride, even if the ambulance is out-of-network. Eligible ambulance transport services are defined under the State Program as:
- Professional ambulance services to the hospital to provide emergency services.
- From one hospital to another hospital if the first hospital cannot provide the emergency services you need.
- From your home to a hospital if an ambulance is the only safe way to transport you.
- Please note that ambulance services are not covered if the situation is not an emergency. For example, if you do not need emergency services and you did not have another form of transportation, for routine transportation, or transportation for outpatient care.
Questions about ambulance and emergency services coverage should be directed to your health insurance company.
For further assistance, contact University Payroll & Benefits.
