Fees
Ambulance provided over 838,000 emergency responses across NSW in 2007/08. This equates to an average of 2,290 people that needed our assistance every day.
If you or someone you know requires emergency ambulance treatment and/or transport you will be required to pay a fee for this service.
Will Medicare cover Ambulance costs?
Medicare does not cover ambulance costs. The person treated by paramedics (ie the patient) is responsible for paying any fees associated with their treatment and/or transport, regardless of whether or not they were the individual who requested an ambulance.
For detailed information on ambulance charges and fees download our Frequently Asked Questions information sheet.
Some ambulance services are provided free of charge to people in receipt of a benefit entitlement. Depending on your situation you may be entitled to subsidised transport.
There has been some confusion among pensioners and other concession card holders regarding interstate ambulance charges and under what circumstances they may become liable for payment when travelling interstate. Further information for concession card holders has been provided by the Ambulance Service to help understand this complex issue.
How do I arrange Ambulance cover?
To arrange ambulance cover you will need to contact a registered private health fund of your choice. An ambulance levy is included as part of basic hospital coverage with a registered health fund. Some funds also offer "ambulance only" insurance. Costs and inclusions differ from fund to fund, therefore it is recommended that you contact several funds to decide which cover is best for your personal circumstances.
Useful information on private health care is available on the Department of Health and Ageing website.
Medicare
does not cover ambulance costs. All individuals and families are encouraged to arrange ambulance cover by contacting a registered private health fund of your choice.