On July 17, 2005 our organization decided to implement a new program called revenue recovery beginning on January 1, 2006. The definition of revenue recovery is billing for emergency transport services to insurance companies and patients. This program is an initiative to further our mission statement, which is "to provide the best prehospital emergency care to the citizens of Waynesboro and Augusta County."

The Waynesboro First Aid Crew has served the citizens of Waynesboro and the Eastern portion of Augusta County faithfully since 1951, and will continue to do so. WFAC is comprised of more than 90 volunteers that give of their time to meet the emergency medical and rescue needs in the area. In 2004, the Crew answered an average of 13 calls per day, for a total of 4,892 calls. The demand for service is continually on the rise, which causes an increase in the cost of operations. While we turn to the citizens of the community once a year with our annual fund drive, we have not met our fundraising goals for 20 years. The lack of fund drive donations has force our all-volunteer rescue squad to take a different approach in order to receive adequate funding to meet rising costs and maintain a high level of service.

Our number one and most important goal of implementing this program is to provide an adequate amount of public education to the community we serve so everyone can learn what the program is all about. In efforts of doing this, please find is a list of questions and answers that we hope will better help you to understand what Revenue Recovery is all about.

What is revenue recovery?
Billing for emergency transport services to insurance companies and patients.

Why use revenue recovery?
Revenue recovery brings to our organization funds needed to meet the growing demand for service.

Do patients pay for service?
Only after all insurance benefits have been collected and even then there are alternatives.

What are alternatives to paying?
You may purchase a subscription plan for $50 that pays all costs for one year per household not covered by insurance.

What if I do not have insurance?
If you purchase a subscription plan your care is paid for; if you do not then you may apply for a financial hardship exemption.

Will service be denied for inability to pay?
No! No citizen will be denied service for any reason including inability to pay.

Will providing billing information delay my care?
No! Your health is our first priority. Gathering of billing data is secondary and will occur at a later time.

How will revenue recovery be used?
WFAC has been working to develop a strategic plan that defines how funds will be used to meet the growing demand for service. These include replacing the fund drive, paying off debts, improving recruitment and retention of volunteers, and enhancing the services currently provided to our community.

Have Augusta County and the City of Waynesboro approved of revenue recovery?
Yes. Both the Augusta County Board of Supervisors and the Waynesboro City Council have met with the WFAC to review revenue recovery. Both have approved the plan.

What if I still have questions?
If you have other questions or concerns, you may contact the Waynesboro First Aid Crew at (540) 949-7118.