Mary Chappius, Todd Ransom, Marty Fowler, Shane Lockard, James Allen Benson, Jeff Cole, David Cooper, Kendall Shrum, Chuck Groshong, Karen Mazzola, Randy Everett, Phil Patterson, Billy Crump, John Thrasher, Ralph Barnwell, Sharon Dykes, Randy Davis, John Thrasher, Larry Chasteen.

A motion was made to accept the minutes as written. Minutes approved.

Shane gave the financial report with a net balance of $6689.26 See the enclosed attachment for additional information.

Randy Davis gave a brief update on several pending house bills. Randy was nominated to be the representative for the SEMO EMS Network at all SAC meetings.

Medicare Issues:

When making multiple patient transports such as MVA's bill for the full amount and HCFA will in turn break it down and reimburse you for the appropriate amount. Be sure this is recorded in the narrative.

SCT [skilled care transport]- A question came up as to whether you can charge for SCT if the RN or RT on board is not your own employee. Awaiting answer from HCFA.

ET tube medication administration does not qualify for an ALS2 charge.

Mark your calendars for the next EMS legislative day in Jefferson City. Tentatively scheduled for the first week in March 2003.

A discussion was held in regards to house bill #0444 and its impact on ambulance services. Chuck will send a letter of appeal.

A discussion was held in regards to the federal funding that is being allocated to fire departments and not to EMS services for Bio-Terrorism training and equipment. Chuck will be drafting a letter to Lois Collman at the Department of Health.

Chuck advised the network we are still awaiting a Regional Medical Director .

Karen- Took a poll for weekday versus weekend for the upcoming BTLS class from the members present. The consensus is a weekday. Look for additional information in the mail.

Shane- Is still awaiting CD for his PEPP class.

Sharon Dykes reported- Three Rivers Community College will be having a Paramedic refresher class June 4-27 contact Sharon for additional information.

Three Rivers Community College is awaiting approval from the State Board of Education for a possible Paramedic AA degree program. Tentatively scheduled for this fall. Each individual will need a total of 73 credit hours. Each medic will receive 40 credit hours for their Paramedic and will then need 23 additional general ed. courses. General ed. courses will transfer.

Special thanks to New Madrid Co. Ambulance for hosting the April meeting and providing a great meal.

Secretary

Mary Chappius