ROANOKE TIMES 
                      Copyright (c) 1997, Roanoke Times

DATE: Saturday, March 8, 1997                TAG: 9703100024
SECTION: CURRENT                  PAGE: NRV-7 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
DATELINE: PEARISBURG
SOURCE: TOM ANGLEBERGER THE ROANOKE TIMES

GILES TO REVIEW FUNDING FOR RESCUE SQUAD FUNDING CRISIS CITED

The county's rescue squad wants to start charging $150-$250 for a hospital transport, but promises it won't deny service to those who can't pay

The Giles County Board of Supervisors voted Thursday to form a committee to consider the best way to generate funding for the county's rescue squad.

After a public hearing, the board decided to delay a decision on the rescue squad's request to begin charging for services until the committee makes a recommendation.

In February, rescue squad officials told the county that they faced a financial crisis that could result in decreased service if not remedied. Squad officials proposed charging $150 for a standard hospital transport and $250 for transports that required advanced measures. There would also be an additional charge for labor and mileage. Squad officials said insurance would pay the fee in most cases, and they would not pressure or deny service to those who could not pay.

County Administrator Roger Mullins said he thought that while not everyone at the public hearing supported the squad's request, there was meaningful discussion of the issue. Some residents were surprised to learn the extent of the squad's financial problems, Mullins said.

Referring the matter to a committee will allow details of the plan to be finalized, he said.

"We're going to pursue and try to ensure ... a long-term solution to the problem," he said.

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