Coverage depends on an individual’s health insurance coverage benefits. Please consult your health insurance provider for specific information. However, in general, most health insurance plans in California, including private insurance, Medicare, and Medi-Cal, will cover a portion or all of the ambulance transportation services fees but typically only when deemed medically necessary. Some plans may require prior authorization for non-emergency transports. Coverage and out-of-pocket costs (copays, deductibles) vary by plan.
Medicare and Medi-Cal generally cover emergency ambulance transport by fire departments if medically necessary. Medicare typically pays 80% of the allowed amount after the deductible, while Medi-Cal typically sets the rates based by the state and generally covers emergency ambulance services provided by state-licensed providers. The San José Fire Department is a state-licensed provider for ambulance transports.
