The AAQPS Advisory Committee Report includes several recommendations:
 
Transition from supplier to provider status for air ambulances, which brings the likelihood of Conditions of Participation and clinical standards that support clinical quality from providers.
 
Data reporting
AAQPS members supported robust, standardized data collection on cost, utilization, and patient information exchange.
 
What this means: Increased reporting requirements, but also new opportunities to demonstrate value.
 
Payment reform is on the table
The report highlights concerns about Medicare reimbursement adequacy and recommends evaluating for adequacy and considering reforming payment to support clinical capability and service complexity.
 
What this means: Potential changes to reimbursement models that could significantly impact your organization.
 
Stronger safety and quality expectations
Recommendations include:

• Adoption of a “Just Culture” safety framework
• Better data sharing across care settings
• System-wide improvements to reduce errors and improve outcomes

What this means: Continued evolution of high-reliability, safety-centered operations.

Clearer triage guidance
The report calls for standardized criteria for appropriate air medical use, aiming to reduce variation in dispatch and utilization.

 What this means: Increased focus on when and how air transport is used.
 
Major focus on aviation safety infrastructure
Key recommendations include:

• Improved weather reporting and rural infrastructure
  
• Expanded instrument flight capabilities
  
• Modernized helipad data and safety standards
  
• Enhancements for single-pilot operations

What this means: Potential federal investment in low-level aviation infrastructure and system-level safety changes.

AAMS sees strong alignment between the report and long-standing AAMS member priorities, including advancing clinical quality and safety standards, supporting sustainable reimbursement models, and promoting data-driven advocacy and policy. While the report itself does not implement policy, its recommendations may be used to inform future CMS rulemaking, Congressional action, and federal agency guidance. We will continue to engage with federal partners to ensure that member voices help shape how these recommendations are implemented. 
 

How you can engage

• Stay informed: Watch for AAMS policy updates and briefings
  
• Share your perspective: Be prepared to contribute to advocacy efforts
  
• Assess readiness: Begin evaluating your program’s alignment with potential new standards
  

FAA Proposes Drone Restrictions:
What It Means for Hospitals and Air Medical Services

New FAA rule could create “drone-free zones” but key gaps leave many air medical operations unprotected.
 
The FAA has issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to establish a framework for restricting drone (UAS) operations around critical infrastructure and select healthcare facilities. The proposal directly impacts the low-altitude airspace where air medical teams operate every day. While a step forward, this proposal does not yet reflect the realities of air medical operations and important gaps remain.  

What the FAA Is Proposing
A process to limit drone operations around designated critical infrastructure,  including a pathway for healthcare facilities to request drone restrictions, potentially creating “drone-free zones.”

Where the Proposal Falls Short
As written, the rule:

• Focuses primarily on Level I trauma centers (including pediatric Level I)

• Does not automatically include:

1. Air medical bases
2. Non–Level I hospitals
3. Common landing zones and scene responses

What We’re Hearing from the Field
Early feedback from AAMS members and partners is clear. The proposal does not go far enough to reflect real-world operations. Air medical teams routinely operate well beyond Level I trauma centers and expanded protections are needed to reduce collision risk in increasingly crowded airspace.

As we advocate for stronger protections, members have also raised an important balance:

• Hospitals may increasingly rely on drones for medical logistics (e.g., blood, supplies, organ transport)  
• Avoid potential conflict with large retail organizations (e.g. Walmart, Amazon).
• Overly broad restrictions could limit innovation or create unintended conflicts with emerging use cases

What’s Next
The FAA has opened a public comment period until July 6th. AAMS is currently gathering member input, as well as  coordinating with AMOA and other industry partners, to prepare formal comments to the FAA.

Your input is critical to strengthening our industry response:

• Share where your program operates beyond Level I trauma centers
• Identify areas where drone activity has created risk or concern
• Provide examples of locations that should be included in protections
  

Please provide your information to AAMS no later than June 15th to give us ample time to incorporate into our comments to the FAA.

Together, we have an opportunity to help shape a final rule that better protects crews, patients, and missions nationwide.

HHS, DOL, and Treasury Issue Final Rule on IDR Operations

AAMS advocacy yields lower costs, clearer rules, expanded batching for air medical claims, and IDR updates to billing, compliance, and dispute workflows.

What’s happening:
On May 28, the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services (HHS), Treasury, and the Office of Personnel Management finalized major reforms to the Federal Independent Dispute Resolution (IDR) process under the No Surprises Act (NSA). 
 
Why it matters:
The IDR process, created to resolve payment disputes for certain out-of-network services, has been overwhelmed since launch, with millions of disputes and ongoing operational challenges. The new rule aims to improve efficiency, transparency, and access for providers. 
 
Key Changes

• Lower costs: Administrative fee reduced from $115 to $15 per party, per dispute, expanding access—especially for smaller providers.
• Improved efficiency: Expanded ability to batch up to 50 related claims into a single dispute.
• Stronger communication requirements: Plans must provide clearer claim-level information and standardized codes to help determine IDR eligibility.
• Updated processes: Revisions to open negotiation, eligibility review, and dispute initiation to reduce delays and ineligible filings.
• New infrastructure: Establishes a Federal IDR registry and lays groundwork for a centralized, portal-based system.
  

Effective Dates

• Most provisions: Effective 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. 
• Administrative fee reduction: Takes effect within days of publication under expedited authority.
  

Please refer to this summary provided by Thorn Run Partners for a more detailed overview of the Final Rule.

AAMS Advocacy Focus
AAMS will continue to monitor implementation and operational impacts on air medical providers, advocate for fair reimbursement and a functional dispute resolution process, and engage federal partners to address ongoing challenges under the No Surprises Act. 

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – The Association of Air Medical Services (AAMS) proudly announces its strong support for the Mental Health in Aviation Act, a bipartisan initiative introduced by Senators John Hoeven (R-ND) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL). This critical legislation seeks to modernize the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) approach to mental health and medical certification for aviation professionals, ensuring safety and well-being remain at the forefront of the industry.

The Act tackles longstanding barriers that have discouraged pilots and air traffic controllers from seeking mental health care, aiming to reduce stigma and foster a culture of openness. Key provisions include:

• Revising FAA regulations to encourage early disclosure and treatment without fear of punitive measures.
• Annual reviews of medical certification processes to ensure they reflect current best practices.
• Expanding mental health expertise within the FAA’s Office of Aerospace Medicine.

“AAMS proudly supports the Mental Health in Aviation Act, recognizing that the well-being of air medical professionals is essential to safety and patient care,” said Jana Williams, President & CEO of AAMS. “This legislation helps ensure those serving in high-stress, lifesaving roles have the resources they need to continue delivering quality care to communities nationwide.”

Air medical crews operate under extraordinary pressure, delivering critical patient care in flight. By championing policies that prioritize mental health, AAMS reinforces its mission to protect both patients and providers. This Act represents a pivotal step toward creating a resilient, stigma-free aviation culture.

Additionally, the legislation authorizes funding for a public information campaign to destigmatize mental health care in aviation and improve access to treatment. These measures align with AAMS’ commitment to advancing safety and supporting professionals who work in high-pressure environments every day.

AAMS urges all stakeholders—industry leaders, policymakers, and aviation professionals—to join us in supporting the Mental Health in Aviation Act. Contact your representatives, share this message, and help build a safer, healthier future for aviation.

Learn more and take action HERE.

As a reminder, the updated governance model is structured around AAMS member categories, designed to ensure broad representation across the industry: 

• Associate: AAMS members that provide products/services to the industry
• Category I: International AAMS Regular Members
• Category II: AAMS Regular Members with 1-10 bases
• Category III: AAMS Regular Members with 11-49 bases
• Category IV: AAMS Regular Members with 50 or more bases
• Category V: AAMS Regular Members with a multi-mission profile, including air medical
• Category VI: AAMS Regular Members providing critical care ground only, no air component
  

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Chair
Mike Perkins, 
COO, MedFlight of Ohio
(Category II)  

Chair-Elect
Kim Montgomery
President, GMR Health Systems 
(Category IV)

Secretary/Treasurer
Tiffany Obetts
Director, Corewell Health Aero Med/North Flight Aero Med
(Category II)

Immediate Past  Chair
James Houser
President/CEO, UPMC Center for Emergency Medicine of Western Pennsylvania, Inc. / STAT MedEvac

DIRECTORS-AT-LARGE

Betsy Casanave
Senior Vice President of Customer Experience, Air Methods Corporation
(Category IV)

Ben Clayton
CEO, Life Flight Network
(Category III)

Chris Hardman
COO, PHI Air Medical
(Category IV)

Josh Howell
Vice President, Intermountain Health
(Category III)

Kolby Kolbet
Chief Innovation Officer, Life Link III
(Category III)

Lee McCammon
COO,  Apollo Medflight, LLC
(Category III)

Jay Paladino
Air Medical Consultant, Alpha Star Air Ambulance
(Category I)

Jeff Richey
Associate Administrator, Airlift Northwest | UW Medicine
(Category II)

Samuel Schaab
Helicopter EMS Specialist, Leonardo Helicopters
(Associate)

Cindy Seidl
Chief Clinical Officer, STARS 
(Category I)

Steve Soliz
HEMS Segment Manager, Bell Textron, Inc.
(Associate)

Todd Stanberry
Vice President, Metro Aviation, Inc.
(Category IV)

Dustin Windle
Program Director
Guardian Air Transport
(Category II)

OF NOTE: There are two eligible seats that remain open - Category V and Category VI. If you meet the criteria and are interested, OR if you know of someone who would be a good fit, please contact Scott Davis at sdavis@aams.org for next steps.

The 2026 AAMS Board of Directors is poised to champion the air medical and critical care transport community. Drawing on real world experience and thoughtful oversight, the Board will stay actively engaged with AAMS members to advance safety initiatives, protect patient access to care, provide workforce development and educational opportunities, and to collaborate across our community. 

We’re looking forward to the year ahead and the important work we’ll continue to do together.

December 31, 2025
 
Dear AAMS Members,
 
As we bring 2025 to a close, thank you for the commitment, expertise, and heart you bring to our community. Together, we championed our shared goal of promoting access to care through advocacy, collaboration, and education - the core of our mission. We will be sharing our 2025 Impact Report in Q1 of 2026 but wanted to briefly focus on a few highlights from this past year specific to the AAMS pillars of Advocacy, Collaboration and Education (ACE). 
 
Advocacy
Your voices and volunteer leadership kept patients and the transport medicine workforce front and center. Our members strengthened bidirectional engagement via the Government Affairs and State Association Committees, ensuring local realities inform national priorities. We continue collaborative industry efforts such as the Protecting Air Ambulance Services for Americans Act, the Mental Health in Aviation Act, participation in the Modern Skies Coalition, the publication of the industry salary survey, and the upcoming publication of an industry cost study—all of which drive responsible policy and practice. In 2025, transparency and member participation grew across our advocacy channels, and our collective input helped shape constructive conversations with policymakers and partners. 
 
Collaboration
This year, we advanced member onboarding and refined how we share information with the broader community to ensure AAMS remains responsive, inclusive, and focused on member value. This spirit of partnership extended throughout the healthcare and aviation landscape, where coordinated efforts with peer organizations helped reduce duplication and made participation more accessible. Across our member programs, you deepened connection and shared practical resources. Contributions to the revamped Resource Toolbox exemplified how we learn from one another and elevate standards together, including safety stand down practices and landing zone safety education. 
 
Education
In 2025, our community demonstrated a resolute commitment to learning and professional growth. From leadership development to advanced clinical instruction to safety-focused training, you stepped up - teaching, mentoring, and actively participating to strengthen the entire transport medicine field.
 
The annual AMTC was a milestone event, our largest gathering since before COVID, bringing together transport professionals for networking, knowledge exchange, and collaboration. The Omaha conference reaffirmed the power of coming together to share best practices and drive innovation. Each of our educational programs (CCTA, LIFT, MTLI, and SMTA) saw impressive participation numbers which is a true reflection of the strength of our industry and a shared dedication to continuous improvement. Each school delivered practical tools, leadership insights, and safety strategies that will shape better outcomes for patients and crews in the year ahead.  
 
On behalf of the AAMS Board and team, thank you for all you do for patients, crews, and communities. As we look ahead to 2026, we are grateful for your partnership, and we are proud to carry this mission forward with you.
 
With appreciation,

Jim Houser
Chair, AAMS Board of Directors

Jana Williams
AAMS President & CEO

Notice of AAMS Commentary Supporting VAI and AMOA Comments Regarding FAA-2025-1908: Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for Normalizing Unmanned Aircraft Systems Beyond Visual Line of Sight Operations (BVLOS).

The Association of Air Medical Services (AAMS), through Thorn Run Partners, supports comments from the Air Medical Operators Association (AMOA) and Vertical Aviation International (VAI) regarding the NPRM for BVLOS UAS operations.

We want to reiterate our position: we remain supportive of UAS growth and we want to ensure that we share the airspace safely. 

AAMS is grateful for the consistent and aligned feedback from across the vertical aviation community that the proposed rule, as it stands, requires thoughtful refinement to ensure improved safety within the shared low-level airspace. Both AMOA and VAI offered comments on the proposed rule, centering around safety and general rotorcraft perspectives.

AAMS appreciates the breadth of these comments, acknowledges the expertise of these organizations, and we are proud to boost these comments for the industry. 

Read the full comments here

AAMS and the Awards Ceremony Sponsor, Golden Hour, are excited to announce the nominees for the 2025 Community Awards to be presented during AMTC25 in Omaha, Nebraska!
 
"AAMS is honored to spotlight the best in medical transport through this unique recognition opportunity," said Jana Williams, AAMS President and CEO. "We’re inspired by this year’s nominees and thrilled to celebrate all of our finalists ahead of the winner announcements in Omaha.”
 
Please join us on Tuesday, October 28th at 3:30 pm CST at the CHI Health Center to celebrate our community. Enjoy cookies and milk while we reveal the recipients of the 2025 Community Awards, as well as recognize various professional association annual award winners. All AMTC25 attendees are encouraged to join us.
 
Below are the finalists for the 2025 Community Awards:
 
Program of the Year, sponsored by Airbus
Honors an emergency medical transport service that exemplifies excellence in patient care, leadership, safety, innovation, and community impact.

• Boston MedFlight, Massachusetts
• Broward Sheriff’s Office Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services Air Rescue Program, Florida
• Children’s Mercy Critical Care Transport, Kansas
• Corewell Health Aero Med and North Flight Aero Med, Michigan
• HALO-Flight, Inc., Texas
• Life Link III, Minnesota
• STARS, Calgary, Alberta Canada
• UNC Carolina Air Care, North Carolina

Marriott-Carlson Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Bell
Honors an individual for outstanding contributions to the growth, leadership, and promotion of the emergency medical transport community through active involvement.

• Martin Arkus, Apollo Medflight
• Clinton Burley, HealthNet Aeromedical Services
• Linda Meiner, PHI Air Medical
• The late Dr. Greg Powell, STARS
• Jacqueline Stocking, Air Medical Journal

Jim Charlson Safety Award, sponsored by Life Flight Network
Recognizes a team, organization, or individual for advancing safety in air and critical care ground transport through impactful contributions and leadership.

• Joe Hand, Arkansas Children’s Hospital – Angel One Transport
• Arron Paduaevans
• Matt Schanz, St. Louis Children’s Hospital
• Erik Thresher, Air Methods 

Neonatal/Pediatric Transport Award of Excellence, sponsored by AirBorne
Honors a team for exceptional contributions to neonatal/pediatric transport through leadership, safety, education, or advocacy that improves patient care.

• Ashley Cozzocrea, St. Louis Children’s Hospital
• Children’s Nebraska Neonatal-Pediatric Critical Care Transport
• Dr. Kelli Lund and the University of Utah AirMed Neonatal Team
• Nicole Magers, St. Louis Children’s Hospital
• Aris Scott, BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS)
• Seattle Children’s Critical Care Transport Team
• UNC Carolina Air Care Pediatric/Neonatal Specialty Team

Transport Mechanic Award of Excellence, sponsored by Leonardo
Honors an individual for advancing the safe operation or maintenance of medical transport vehicles through impactful maintenance procedures.

• Russell Bradberry, Air Methods/Care Flight
• Leon Gerardi, Med Trans/Erlanger Life Force
• Tyler Lietz, Air Methods/St. Louis Children’s Hospital
• Eric Scoggins, Air Methods/UNC Carolina Air Care
• Stanley Shepherd, Arkansas Children’s Hospital – Angel One Transport
• Dave Vasquez, Med Trans/Akron Children’s Hospital

Excellence in Transport Leadership Award 
Honors a leader in air and ground critical care transport for exceptional knowledge, visionary leadership, safety, innovation, and commitment to the medical transport community.

• Julia Azua, CSI Aviation
  
• Chris Baker and Jamie August, Seattle Children’s Hospital Critical Care Transport Team
• John Kelvin Garcia, United States Air Force
• Robert Grabowski, Children’s Nebraska
• Chris Naples, BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS)
• Travis L. Patterson, HALO-Flight, Inc.
• Amber Payne-Gregory, Air Med International
• Leanne Reaves, UNC Carolina Air Care
• Rob Schlamp, BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS)

NEW!
Eileen Frazer Spark Award, presented in partnership with CAMTS
Celebrates bold vision and emerging leadership in out-of-hospital care. Honors an individual early in their career whose innovative idea or initiative has the potential to reshape the medical transport landscape—echoing Eileen Frazer’s pioneering work in founding CAMTS. 

• Amy Ball, Norton Healthcare
• Maryann Peterson, Cohen Children’s Medical Center
• Kevin Rixmann, Life Link III

AAMS Community Impact Award
Recognizes a team, organization, or individual for outstanding contributions that expand access, improve equity, strengthen services, and gives hope for the future of transport medicine. 

• Enterprise Rescue
• LifeMed Alaska
• Primary Care Flight Paramedic (PCFP) and Advanced Care Flight Paramedic (ACFP) Program

NEW! 
AAMS 40 Under 40 Rising Leaders Awards
Presented to young professionals driving innovation and excellence in air medical transport. The 40 Under 40 award celebrates emerging leaders advancing patient care, safety, and operations.
 
Finalists will be announced shortly under separate cover - stay tuned!

Join us on Tuesday in Omaha to hear the winners first-hand and celebrate the 2025 Award Winners with your colleagues.

Special thanks to our event sponsor,

AAMS and the Awards Ceremony Sponsor, Golden Hour, are excited to announce the nominees for the 2025 Community Awards to be presented during AMTC25 in Omaha, Nebraska!
 
"AAMS is honored to spotlight the best in medical transport through this unique recognition opportunity," said Jana Williams, AAMS President and CEO. "We’re inspired by this year’s nominees and thrilled to celebrate all of our finalists ahead of the winner announcements in Omaha.”
 
Please join us on Tuesday, October 28th at 3:30 pm CST at the CHI Health Center to celebrate our community. Enjoy cookies and milk while we reveal the recipients of the 2025 Community Awards, as well as recognize various professional association annual award winners. All AMTC25 attendees are encouraged to join us.
 
Below are the finalists for the 2025 Community Awards:
 
Program of the Year, sponsored by Airbus
Honors an emergency medical transport service that exemplifies excellence in patient care, leadership, safety, innovation, and community impact.

• Boston MedFlight, Massachusetts
• Broward Sheriff’s Office Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services Air Rescue Program, Florida
• Children’s Mercy Critical Care Transport, Kansas
• Corewell Health Aero Med and North Flight Aero Med, Michigan
• HALO-Flight, Inc., Texas
• Life Link III, Minnesota
• STARS, Calgary, Alberta Canada
• UNC Carolina Air Care, North Carolina

Marriott-Carlson Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Bell
Honors an individual for outstanding contributions to the growth, leadership, and promotion of the emergency medical transport community through active involvement.

• Martin Arkus, Apollo Medflight
• Clinton Burley, HealthNet Aeromedical Services
• Linda Meiner, PHI Air Medical
• The late Dr. Greg Powell, STARS
• Jacqueline Stocking, Air Medical Journal

Jim Charlson Safety Award, sponsored by Life Flight Network
Recognizes a team, organization, or individual for advancing safety in air and critical care ground transport through impactful contributions and leadership.

• Joe Hand, Arkansas Children’s Hospital – Angel One Transport
• Arron Paduaevans
• Matt Schanz, St. Louis Children’s Hospital
• Erik Thresher, Air Methods 

Neonatal/Pediatric Transport Award of Excellence, sponsored by AirBorne
Honors a team for exceptional contributions to neonatal/pediatric transport through leadership, safety, education, or advocacy that improves patient care.

• Ashley Cozzocrea, St. Louis Children’s Hospital
• Children’s Nebraska Neonatal-Pediatric Critical Care Transport
• Dr. Kelli Lund and the University of Utah AirMed Neonatal Team
• Nicole Magers, St. Louis Children’s Hospital
• Aris Scott, BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS)
• Seattle Children’s Critical Care Transport Team
• UNC Carolina Air Care Pediatric/Neonatal Specialty Team

Transport Mechanic Award of Excellence, sponsored by Leonardo
Honors an individual for advancing the safe operation or maintenance of medical transport vehicles through impactful maintenance procedures.

• Russell Bradberry, Air Methods/Care Flight
• Leon Gerardi, Med Trans/Erlanger Life Force
• Tyler Lietz, Air Methods/St. Louis Children’s Hospital
• Eric Scoggins, Air Methods/UNC Carolina Air Care
• Stanley Shepherd, Arkansas Children’s Hospital – Angel One Transport
• Dave Vasquez, Med Trans/Akron Children’s Hospital

Excellence in Transport Leadership Award 
Honors a leader in air and ground critical care transport for exceptional knowledge, visionary leadership, safety, innovation, and commitment to the medical transport community.

• Julia Azua, CSI Aviation
  
• Chris Baker and Jamie August, Seattle Children’s Hospital Critical Care Transport Team
• John Kelvin Garcia, United States Air Force
• Robert Grabowski, Children’s Nebraska
• Chris Naples, BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS)
• Travis L. Patterson, HALO-Flight, Inc.
• Amber Payne-Gregory, Air Med International
• Leanne Reaves, UNC Carolina Air Care
• Rob Schlamp, BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS)

NEW!
Eileen Frazer Spark Award, presented in partnership with CAMTS
Celebrates bold vision and emerging leadership in out-of-hospital care. Honors an individual early in their career whose innovative idea or initiative has the potential to reshape the medical transport landscape—echoing Eileen Frazer’s pioneering work in founding CAMTS. 

• Amy Ball, Norton Healthcare
• Maryann Peterson, Cohen Children’s Medical Center
• Kevin Rixmann, Life Link III

AAMS Community Impact Award
Recognizes a team, organization, or individual for outstanding contributions that expand access, improve equity, strengthen services, and gives hope for the future of transport medicine. 

• Enterprise Rescue
• LifeMed Alaska
• Primary Care Flight Paramedic (PCFP) and Advanced Care Flight Paramedic (ACFP) Program

NEW! 
AAMS 40 Under 40 Rising Leaders Awards
Presented to young professionals driving innovation and excellence in air medical transport. The 40 Under 40 award celebrates emerging leaders advancing patient care, safety, and operations.
 
Finalists will be announced shortly under separate cover - stay tuned!

Join us on Tuesday in Omaha to hear the winners first-hand and celebrate the 2025 Award Winners with your colleagues.

Special thanks to our event sponsor,

CMS Opens $50B Rural Health Transformation Program
What It Means for Air Medical Providers

Last week, CMS announced that states can now apply for the $50 billion Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program, with the first submission deadline set for November 5, 2025.

Initially designed to offset Medicaid cuts, the program is now positioned as a long-term investment in rural health modernization. CMS will distribute $10 billion annually through FY 2030, and states must obligate funds each year or risk recapture.

To qualify, states must submit a Rural Health Transformation Plan and commit to at least three of ten eligible investment areas, including but not limited to:

• Telehealth expansion
• Behavioral health services
• IT infrastructure upgrades
• Workforce recruitment and retention
• “Right-sizing” local health systems

Importantly, states must certify that RHT funds will not be used as Medicaid match, keeping the program separate from traditional Medicaid financing.

Why This Matters for Air Ambulance Providers
The RHT Program presents new opportunities for air medical providers to partner with state health departments. Key program elements align with the unique value air transport brings to rural care:

• Access & Equity: Air ambulances often provide the only viable path to higher-acuity care for rural patients. Including air transport in state plans could demonstrate measurable improvements in access.
• Digital Health Integration: Telehealth and IT upgrades may enable air providers to connect with statewide health information exchanges and emergency systems.
• Workforce & System Design: As states rethink rural delivery models, air transport can ensure timely access for communities losing inpatient or specialty services.
• Behavioral Health & Emergency Preparedness: Air medical teams can support crisis response and emergency transfers, especially in behavioral health and disaster scenarios.

Next Steps
The RHT Program is state-driven, with broad discretion left to governors and health departments. Opportunities will vary, so air medical providers should proactively engage with state officials to highlight how their services support program goals around access, modernization, and workforce sustainability.

Resources for AAMS Members

• RHT website
• Overview of the CMS Rural Health Transformation Program (RHT)
• CMS RHT Program Timeline
• RHT Talking Points

Click below to read the joint position statement in full:

AAMS and Golden Hour are excited to announce the "Eat Dessert First" styled Awards Celebration, set to take place on Tuesday, November 5th at 3:30 pm MST during the 2024 Air Medical Transport Conference (AMTC)  in Salt Lake City, Utah. 
 
This year's awards event puts dessert first and celebrates all that is sweet!  Attendees will enjoy milk and cookies to toast and dunk while the industry learns who will take home the 2024 Community Awards, as well as the honorees of the 2024 AAMS, AMPA, ASNTA, ICAPP, IAMTCS, and NEMSPA annual awards. This event is open to all AMTC attendees. 
 
Below are the finalists for the 2024 Community Awards:
 
Program of the Year, sponsored by Airbus
Recognizes an emergency medical transport service that has demonstrated a superior level of patient care, management prowess, high quality leadership through visionary and innovative approaches, customer service, safety consciousness, marketing ingenuity, community service, and a commitment to the medical transport community.

• ARCH Air Medical, St Louis, MO
• Intermountain Life Flight, Salt Lake City, UT
• LIFE FORCE Air Medical, Chattanooga, TN
• UNC Carolina Air Care, Chapel Hill, NC
• University of Utah Health AirMed, Salt Lake City, UT
• University of Virginia Medical Transport Network, Charlottesville, VA

Marriott-Carlson Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Bell
Recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to the overall enhancement, development, leadership or promotion of the emergency medical transport community and has been actively involved or participated in an emergency medical transport organization.

• Janie Ford, MSN, RN, CFRN, AGACNP-BC - University of Utah Health AirMed
• Richard Orr, MD - Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC (Retired)
• Stephan Russ, MD - Vanderbilt LifeFlight

Jim Charlson Safety Award
Recognizes an entity (team, organization, individual) who has made significant contributions to the overall enhancement, development or promotion of safety within the air and critical care ground transport community.

• Kevin and Sandy Hutton - The Hutton Foundation
• Dave and Amanda Repsher, Silverthorne, CO
• Kevin Schitosky - Med Trans Corporation
• Donna York, Chair, Safety Management Training Academy (SMTA)

Neonatal/Pediatric Transport Award of Excellence, sponsored by AirBorne
Recognizes a team that has made an outstanding contribution to a neonatal/ pediatric transport service in any of the following areas: enhancing safety, education, leadership, patient advocacy by developing or promoting the improvement of patient care in the medical transport community.

• Children's Health Neonatal/Pediatric Transport, Dallas, TX
• Children's Nebraska Critical Care Transport, Omaha, NE
• UNC Carolina Air Care Pediatric/Neonatal Specialty Team, Chapel Hill, NC
• UVA Health's Medical Transport Network - Neo/Peds Team, Charlottesville, VA
  

Transport Mechanic Award of Excellence, sponsored by Leonardo
Recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to the safe operation of medical transport vehicles or the improvement of safe maintenance procedures of medical transport vehicles.

• Dave Esteves - Haiti Air Ambulance
• Jim Heller - University of Virginia Medical Transport Network
• Greg Robbeloth - Stanford Life Flight
  

Excellence in Transport Leadership Award 
Recognizes air and ground critical care transport leader who has demonstrated a superior level of knowledge and management prowess, high-quality leadership through visionary and innovative approaches, customer service, safety consciousness, marketing ingenuity, community service, commitment to the emergency medical community as a whole. 

• Ashley M. Chitty, RN, CFRN, CPEN - Life Link III
• Jermaine Clayborne, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, CCRN, CFRN, FP-C  - University of Virginia Medical Transport Network
• William Cyr, MHA, RN, NR - LifeFlight of Maine
• Christopher Hardman, MBA, MSN, RN, NRP, CMTE - PHI Health, LLC

"AAMS is humbled to provide this unique opportunity to recognize the best in the medical transport community.  We are in awe of this year's slate of nominees and enjoy spotlighting them," said AAMS President and CEO, Jana Williams. "Ahead of the winners being announced in Salt Lake City, we appreciate this time to genuinely celebrate all of our finalists!"

Additional notable industry awards to be recognized during the event include: 

AAMS
AAMS Community Impact Award - Recognizes a team, organization or individual that has made an outstanding contribution to transport medicine which resulted in expanded access, increased health care equity, preserved or broadened services, improved medical transport solvency, strengthened business continuity, enhanced patient advocacy, or improved a foundational element of medical transport that gives hope for a brighter future.  

AAMS Rising Spirit Award - Recognizes a team, organization or individual that has demonstrated the positive side of what healthcare and medical transport is about with a specific program or feature aimed at taking care of our people, improving resilience, raising spirits, and finding the good. 

AAMS Image Excellence Award - Recognizes a team, organization, or individual that has made an outstanding social media presence, campaign, short, or post that represents the very best in medical transport - as chosen by members of the transport community. Submissions remain open for this particular award until Friday, October 18, 2024. 

AMPA
Medical Director of the Year - Recognizes a physician who has made outstanding contributions to his or her own program.

Distinguished Physician Award - Recognizes a physician who has significantly contributed to the Air Medicine profession and to recognize lifetime achievement and service to the Air Medical community

ASTNA
Katz-Mason Award for Transport Nursing Excellence - Presented for exceptional leadership to an individual who has had a positive impact on flight transport nursing on a global scale. 

Jordan Award - Recognizes an individual who has made a significant contribution to transport medical journalism. 

Lynn Stevens Excellence in Safety Award - Presented for excellence in safety to an individual who has made significant contributions to safety initiatives that have impacted the safety and culture of a specific program or the transport community as a whole.

IAMTCS
Communication Specialist of the Year - Given in recognition an outstanding communication specialist who fosters clear and effective communication among team members during high-stress situations, provides compassionate and informative support to patients and their families, and/or innovatively disseminates crucial information within the air medical community.

ICAPP
Tim Hynes Award - Recognizes exemplary abilities in leadership, education and safety within the paramedic profession. 

NEMSPA
Pilot of the Year - Presented to a pilot for going the extra mile, doing the right thing, always making safety a priority and working hard to get you home at the end of your shift.

William T. Wynn Lifetime Achievement Award - Given to a pilot for contributions to the air medical industry for some time, through their professionalism, technical expertise, safety focus, and leadership.

 Join us on Tuesday in Salt Lake City to find out how the "awards cookie" crumbles and help us celebrate this year's 2024 Industry Award Winners.

Special thanks to our event sponsor!

VA Delays Rule on Specialty Ambulance Reimbursements Until 2029
Rule delay protects Veteran access to emergency medical transport, especially in rural areas

AAMS thanks leaders with the Department of Veteran Affairs for meeting with industry recently, and we applaud their decision, announced on September 6th,  to delay any change to reimbursement rates for air and ground ambulances until 2029. 

The planned VA rule to lower its transportation rate to parity with Medicare rates, which remain well below cost, was scheduled to go into effect in February of 2025. Such a significant decrease would have threatened the availability of crucial emergency health care for our nation’s Veterans. The rule delay provides much needed time for the VA to work with medical transport providers to ensure the rule will not negatively impact emergency transport services and providers’ ability to serve Veterans, especially those in vulnerable rural and hard-to-reach areas.
 
AAMS would like to thank Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Jon Tester (D-Mont.) and Ranking Member Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) who continue to lead the charge ensuring rural Veterans’ have access to lifesaving emergency medical transportation services. You can view their communication here.  
 
We are also grateful to many organizations for their strong support as we worked collectively to delay the VA rate changes including:

• American Ambulance Association
• American Legion
• Association of Critical Care Transport
• Disabled American Veterans
• International College of Advanced Practice Paramedics 
• International Association of Fire Chiefs
• International Association of Fire Fighters
• Jewish War Veterans
• National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians
• Paralyzed Veterans of America
• Vertical Aviation International
• VFW

“AAMS welcomes the opportunity to continue working with our industry partners, the VA, the VSOs, and Congress to implement a path forward that would ensure Veteran access and availability to emergency transportation, particularly in rural America,” said AAMS President & CEO, Jana Williams. “We remain optimistic that the extra time for continued collaboration will result in a positive outcome for all stakeholders.”

AAMS is pleased to announce the 64 graduates representing the 2024 Class of the Medical Transport Leadership Institute (MTLI), the association's flagship leadership training program.  

AAMS awards the Certified Medical Transport Executive (CMTE) designation to the following individuals and welcomes them to an impressive leadership roster of over 1200 CMTEs in air and critical care ground medicine since the program’s inception in 1998.

• Mohammed Al Zahrani, Alpha Star Aviation Service
• Brian Allen, UVA Health Medical Transport Network
• Matthew Baily, Penn State Health Life Lion Critical Care
• James Bane, PHI Air Medical
• Andrew Basile, STAT MedEvac
• Magalis Bayron, SeniorCare EMS
• Brandon Bell, Avera Careflight
• Heather Cady, Med-Trans / GMR
• Juliamaria Calvo, Texas Children's Hospital
  
• Toby Carter,  Cape Fear Valley LifeLink Air
• Kevin Casey, Classic Air Medical
• Gregory Cassis, UVA - Pegasus
• Christopher Chang, Care Flight
• Caleb Chestnut, GMR /Guardian Flight Great Lakes
• Gustav Clark, Star Valley EMS
• Jason Cole, Classic Air Medical
• Brett Cross, Classic Air Medical
• Kyle Danielson, Airlift Northwest | UW Medicine
• Amanda Davis, Cook Children's Teddy Bear Transport
• John Evans, Vanderbilt Lifeflight
• Andrea Frechette, St. Luke's Emergency & Transport
• Daniel Gormley, Flight For Life Colorado
• Drayton Green, AirMed International LLC
• Kacee Griffin, Atrium Health / Medcenter Air
• Tracie Groves, Novant Health - Vitalink
• Cindy Gutierrez, Flight for Life
• Lamar Hall, Children's One Flight Team
• Courtney Harrison, Med Trans Corporation/ EagleMed-HealthStar
• Donna Hawley, STAT MedEvac
• Kenneth Hawley, GMR / MTC / AeroCare
• Amaury Hernandez, Health Care District of Palm Beach County
• Kimberly Hough, AMI
• Shelby Jackson, Flight For Life Colorado
• Kirsten Johnston, Arkansas Children's Hospital - Angel One
• Aimee Kollat, Banner Air
• Zachary Lancaster, Wellstar AirCare
• Nicholas Lehouillier, Flight For Life
• Andrea Leighty, Life Flight Network
• Leilana Lopez, GMR
• Zach Lyman, Classic Air Medical
• Sean McConnell, Flight For Life Colorado
  
• Nicholas North, UMass Memorial LIFE FLIGHT
• Shaun Notary, GMR
• Colleen Planck, Nationwide Children's Transport Team
• Stefani Price, Atrium Health / Medcenter Air
• Shannon Ramsey, Life Flight
• Tyler Rebbe, Flight For Life Colorado
• Stephen Schmid, Life Flight Network
• Bryan Shepard, Geisinger Life Flight
  
• Kimberly Smith, AirLife Denver
• Ben St. Germain, AirMed International
• Christopher Stansell, Med-Trans Corporation / AeroCare
• Michael Steckevicz, Boston MedFlight
• Brian Taylor, AMS / ACCESS Air Ambulance
• Mack Tolbert, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist AirCare
• Debra Tortora, MedFlight of Ohio
• Todd Van de Bussche, VCU Health
• Tina Wells, GMR
• Jennifer Wheeler Powers, Boston MedFlight
• Jenni White, Natioinwide Childrens Hospital
• Erin Whitney, Life Flight Network
• Darby Wix, AirMed International LLC
• Chris Yates, LifeForce Air Medical
• Chris Zukowski, St. Luke's University Health Network

"I am incredibly proud of this year's graduates, all of whom represent the 25th Class of CMTE's in ideal fashion," said MTLI Council of Regents Chair, Tom Liebman. "These individuals excelled over two years in a rigorous program that has prepared them for leadership roles in our unique industry that sits at the crossroads of healthcare and aviation."

Learn more about the Medical Transport Leadership Institute here. 

Thanks to all of you who were able to join us on the AAMS Town Hall held on April 30th — the participation was fantastic!

If you were not able to join us, below you can request a recording of the session to hear about all things AAMS — AAMS Board Chair, Jim Houser; AAMS CEO, Jana Williams; and each AAMS Committee Chair spent about an hour providing a LOT of great information about AAMS initiatives and activities, and fielded questions from participants as well.

REQUEST the recording here.

Hello friends,
 
It is fitting as we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, a time of gratitude, that AAMS pauses to share our appreciation for you, the people who make our community extraordinary. 
 
First, we’d thank all who helped make The AMTC23 a memorable one. Like the more than 30 award finalists and winners to the allied organizations whose contributions demonstrate some of the best of our industry, we are grateful and honored to continue the rich history of the Air Medical Transport Conference tradition. 
 
Of course, a significant power outage left an impression, but the loss also illuminated (pun intended) the resolve and resilience of those in attendance. We could not have been more proud of those who pivoted to continue education, product showcases, and networking.  And while we may play with some light-hearted phrasing, we take our responsibility to address any gaps seriously. I am extraordinarily proud of the AAMS team for the efforts they are continuing to make in that regard.  
 
Recently, we launched "THE AMTC23 Illuminated: Bringing Education Out of the Dark" Virtual Series to provide a means for conference attendees to obtain the CE credits missed while The AMTC23 was literally in the dark. Attendees can earn up to 10 CE credits, nearly double the CE earned from attending the live sessions in-person. Over the next several weeks, AAMS will host live webinars as well as recorded sessions from those that were cancelled due to the power outage. AMTC attendees have access to these sessions at no additional cost. CE credits are available to AMTC23 attendees who purchased a Full Conference Registration or a One-Day Registration with CEs. The first live session was held yesterday, and will be available on-demand for those who were unable to attend shortly. Mark your calendars for the next live session - Improving Employee Retention: A Successful Program Through the Eyes of an Employee - on Thursday, November 30th at 1400h to take part if you are able. 
 
For our exhibiting companies, we recognize the lost face time due to the outage as well.  The AAMS team has begun connecting with each of the more than 120 exhibitors to better understand their specific impacts. We expect this to take some time and are grateful for the patience and grace being afforded us while we navigate these complexities. 
 
There were many positives coming out of Columbus. We cannot underscore enough how fortunate we were to have the AAMS and ACCT boards collaborate at AMTC, discussing sustainability of our industry and adding value to our members. We graduated more than 20 clinicians from the Critical Care Transport Academy (CCTA) who are ready to enter our workforce. We are also grateful for the AAMS board of directors who finalized the AAMS 2024 Strategic Plan at AMTC. You will see additional communication specifically on the strategic plan soon.  
 
As we continue to tally stats and review feedback, I'd like to share some AMTC23 numbers:

• 1254 total attendees (vs roughly 1400 last year)
•  126 expo booths in approximately 30,000 sq ft (vs 110 booths in approximately 40,000 sq ft last year)
• 25 valued event sponsors (vs 20 last year)

We remain grateful for your feedback. If you haven't yet had the chance, please take a few minutes to complete our conference evaluation or reach out directly at any time. We have already begun planning for AMTC24 in Salt Lake City, Utah, and we place great value on your input.
 
The public knows our industry for the lifesaving efforts and noble acts you endeavor each day. We understand it takes a village, and the Air Medical Transport Conference provides the gathering to highlight all facets of that honorable work. We called it The AMTC23 mostly to capitalize on the local flare and to showcase our great partners in Columbus, however The AMTC could be fitting every year because it is truly the one place where all aspects of our community come together—medical, aviation, transportation, regulation, manufacturing, maintaining, billing, sharing, serving, and leading.  
 
We hold our community members sacred and recognize the pressures everyone is facing. We know AAMS membership and AMTC participation are choices. However, we believe they’re also a 2-part commitment - half is the value proposition (what you get) and half is industry endorsement (what our community gets with your support). We are indebted to all who recognize that and continue to support the global effort. 
 
While there is much for AAMS to do ahead, we pause in gratitude for each of you. And one last piece of housekeeping…in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday, you will be receiving your next issue of the Eye on Washington newsletter on Monday, November 27.
 
Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving with those you love and who love you!

With great respect, 

Jana Williams
AAMS President and CEO

• CLASS I - One (1) Seat: This voting director is selected from a slate of candidates across the entire membership, although priority will be given to Industry Members that provide products and services to medical transport organizations.

• CLASS IV - One (1) Seat: This voting director must reside and be employed by an AAMS member company with 1 - 10 base locations.

• CLASS V - One (1) Seat: This voting director must reside and be employed by an AAMS member company with 11 - 49 base locations.

Interested parties, please click here to view the Board Member Job Description and qualifications, and to learn more about the roles and responsibilities of serving on the AAMS/MFI Board of Directors.  You can submit your nomination form and required collateral materials online.  

Nominations must be received no later than November 17, 2023.

In order to submit a nomination, the applicant's organization must be up-to-date with their AAMS membership dues.

If you have any questions after reviewing the information provided, please contact us at info@aams.org. 

Sincerely,

René Borghese
Past AAMS Board Chair
Chair of the Nominating Committee

Support S.2757 / H.R.5530 VA Emergency Transportation Access Act HERE

RESOURCES

• H.R. 5530 Press Release, Sept 21st: Zinke Co-Leads Bill Countering VA’s Outdated Emergency Transportation Rule
  
  
• S.2757 Press Release, Sept 13th: Tester, Moran, Murray, Boozman Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Rural Veterans’ Access to Lifesaving Emergency Medical Transportation
  
  
• Review bill text here: H.R.5530 and S.2757
  
  
• AAMS has developed key talking points in collaboration with industry partner organizations. If you would like a copy to have for reference should you receive any inquiries about the bill, please email bbeggan@aams.org.
  

AAMS also stands ready to help with inquiries. Please refer contacts to Kyle Sanders, AAMS Public Affairs Advocate at ksanders@thornrun.com.

• S.2757 / H.R.5530 1-pager resource document
  
  
• Joint AAMS & ACCT letters of support for S.2757 and H.R.5530

AAMS would like to thank the Association of Critical Care Transport (ACCT) and the American Ambulance Association (AAA) for their collaboration on the VA issue.

On September 11, Senators Jon Tester of Montana and Jerry Moran of Kansas, the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, respectively, introduced S.2757: VA Emergency Transportation Access Act, a bill that seeks seeks to address a critical issue that threatens access to ambulance services. The legislation is co-sponsored by Patty Murray of Washington and John Boozman of Arkansas.

Notably, this legislation would protect Veterans' access to emergency ground and air services by requiring the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to perform a thorough study of the impact of any change to reimbursement rates prior to modifying the current rates. This bill comes as the VA and ambulance industry continue to work cooperatively on a solution to the reimbursement issue caused by the Final Rule in February that lowered all air and ground ambulance payments to parity with Medicare. 

The Medicare program reimburses ambulance service organizations far below the cost of providing critical emergency ambulance transportation services. Further reductions will significantly impact the availability of air ambulance transports to Veterans, and dramatically reduce Veterans' access to emergency medical services throughout the United States. 

RESOURCES

• Press Release, Sept 13th: Tester, Moran, Murray, Boozman Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect Rural Veterans’ Access to Lifesaving Emergency Medical Transportation

• Review S.2757 Text here.

• An easy, online method to send a letter of support to your Senate representatives
  
  
• AAMS has developed key talking points in collaboration with industry partner organizations. If you would like a copy to have for reference should you receive any inquiries about the bill, please email bbeggan@aams.org.
  
  
• One-pager S.2757 resource document
  
  
• Joint AAMS & ACCT letter of support
  

Yesterday, AAMS learned that our request for a summary judgment in the No Surprises Act litigation (which later was consolidated with similar filings from AHA, AMA and others) was denied in federal court.  Judge J. Leon issued an opinion accepting the HHS arguments and issued an order closing the case.  AAMS accepts the court ruling and will not be seeking appeal.  

AAMS will continue to advocate on our members behalf to ensure the No Surprises Act and the Independent Dispute Resolution process is properly enforced. The law, clear in its intent, timelines, and process, must be followed to ensure the viability of emergency healthcare services.

AAMS is keenly aware that many of our members are experiencing long delays in receiving payments after successful IDR efforts which is further straining an already burdened critical safety net service of our healthcare system. AAMS continues to work with its healthcare association partners to ensure the sustainability of emergency healthcare services for our communities and to support the dedicated professionals that provide these services.  

HHS suspends the Federal IDR process
Suspension includes initiation of new disputes until the departments can provide additional instructions. 

For a third time, a Texas federal judge has sided with the Texas Medical Association in its series of legal challenges over the No Surprises Act. The most recent court victory has resulted in the 5th Circuit in Texas vacating: (1) the $350 fee to begin an arbitration; and (2) the batching provisions from a September 2021 rule. 

Background:

•  The first case relates to the sudden, seven-fold increase from $50 to $350 in the administrative fee that out-of-network physicians were required to pay for initiating payment disputes through the IDR process with insurance companies regarding fair payment to physicians who had cared for patients covered by those payers. Of note, the ruling was not a complete victory for the TMA, as the judge said providers are not entitled to a refund of fees that they have paid this year.
• The second was a rule that severely limited the ability of these physicians to combine similar disputes in a single arbitration proceeding — thereby substantially increasing administrative costs and decreasing efficiency in dispute resolution. TMA argued that the batching provisions were unlawful because they are narrower than the statute, which allowed for the batching of claims for all procedures in a patient’s treatment plan, episode of care, or even across patients with similar conditions, but the administration instead chose to restrict batching to claims with the same service code. 
• In each instance, the Court found that the government’s actions were taken without giving the public notice and an opportunity to comment as required by federal law — and that those adversely affected by these actions had strong arguments against those actions.

As a result, HHS has temporarily suspended the IDR process. Notably, this isn’t the first time there has been a halt on the IDR process — the agencies also froze some portal operations for five weeks in February and March after the TMA prevailed in litigation involving the criteria used to decide IDR cases. This time is different in that all activity has been halted, whereas in the earlier instance stakeholders could still send disputes to the system. 
 
It’s unclear for how long the portal will be closed, but it will likely require new guidance from the agency. Earlier this year, the agencies indicated that they have been working on a new proposed rule in which these issues could be addressed. AAMS  will be following the publication of those regulations closely, as well as any announcements related to the portal.