Recently, a healthsprocket list was posted which displayed four Emergency Medical Services that have added value within an integrated health care system by using innovative non-acute care models. The list comes from the Medlert website.

Hospital readmission penalties, healthcare consumers and EMS are all under the Affordable Care Act. There is an opportunity for EMS to reconfigure the role of EMS within an integrated health care system. In regards to healthcare consumerism, patients, health care providers, hospitals, and health care organizations are all included in the ambulance service industry. Today, consumers expect convenience and a user friendly experience. Also, consumers expect proven value for a paid service, personal connection, and an accessibility of services anytime. For a full understanding of how to meet consumer demand, the ambulance service industry has to recognize how consumer needs are shifting.