Standardization of ambulance rates leads to additional burden

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government has standardized the rates for prepaid ambulances, increasing charges by up to 20% compared to the previous rates. The revised tariff includes charges for additional kilometers and waiting time. On February 12, an extraordinary gazette notification was issued, categorizing all ambulance charges into different slabs. The government stated that this move aims to curb the exploitation by private ambulance services.

At present, most ambulances charge between Rs 45 and Rs 50 per kilometer, with no minimum charge structure in place. Discussions are ongoing to implement a prepaid system for ambulances stationed at hospitals.

Minimum charge for 10 KM

• The minimum charge is applicable for the first 10 kilometers. There is no waiting charge for the first hour. For D-category ambulances equipped with ICU and ventilator facilities, the minimum charge is Rs 2,500, with an additional charge of Rs 50 per kilometer and a waiting charge of Rs 350 per hour. A technician and doctor will be available in the ambulance.
• The minimum charge for A-category ambulances (RTO-approved AC vehicles like Omni, Eeco, and Bolero) is Rs 800. Waiting charge per hour: Rs 200, per-kilometer charge: Rs 25.
• The minimum charge for non-AC vehicles in the same category is Rs 600. Waiting charge per hour: Rs 150, per-kilometer charge: Rs 20.

Slab-based charges for different categories

C-Category (Traveler Ambulance - AC, with Oxygen Facility)
Minimum Charge: Rs 1,500
Waiting Charge per Hour: Rs 200
Per-Kilometer Charge: Rs 40

B-Category (Non-AC Traveler Ambulance)
Minimum Charge: Rs 1,000
Waiting Charge per Hour: Rs 200
Per-Kilometer Charge: Rs 30

Discounts for BPL (Below Poverty Line) cardholders
Ventilator-equipped ambulances in C and D categories will provide a 20% discount for BPL cardholders. Cancer patients and seriously ill children under 12 years old will receive a discount of Rs 2 per kilometer.