MECHANICSBURG, Pa. — The Academy of International Mobile Healthcare Integration (AIMHI) is inviting ambulance agencies across the country to participate in an important initiative aimed at helping shape the future of the Medicare Ground Ambulance Data Collection System (GADCS).
Following the release of MedPAC’s recent report analyzing the first several years of GADCS data, AIMHI representatives met with MedPAC staff to discuss the current data collection process, the value of the information being collected and opportunities to reduce the significant reporting burden placed on ambulance service providers.
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One proposal would reduce GADCS reporting to a smaller set of key data collected more frequently from a rotating sample of ambulance agencies, easing the reporting burden while providing policymakers with timely information.
AIMHI created a workbook to help ambulance agencies identify which GADCS data elements are essential for a streamlined reporting process.
AIMHI is asking ambulance agencies of all sizes and service models to review the workbook and identify 25 to 50 GADCS data elements they consider most useful for future national reporting.
Agencies are being asked to weigh each element based on its value, accessibility and reporting burden. The survey seeks expert opinion only and does not require agencies to submit operational or financial data. AIMHI estimates most agencies can complete the review in about an hour.
GADCS data are increasingly shaping federal decisions on ambulance reimbursement and EMS sustainability. AIMHI says a smaller, more focused dataset could give policymakers better information while reducing the reporting burden on providers.
AIMHI will compile the responses, identify the most-supported data elements and share the findings with national EMS groups to help develop recommendations for the future of GADCS.
Agencies can download AIMHI’s GADCS Data Streamlining Workbook to provide feedback on which data elements should be prioritized.
