When minutes matter, we're ready to respond.
The EMS Levy is a renewal of a tax measure that has supported Ambulance Services, including the Paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians, and hospital Emergency Department Services for more than 35 years. The Levy provides critical funds to support both these services.
The hospital Emergency Department provides care for nearly 4,500 patients annually. While our sophisticated Emergency Department treats fractures, stitches, and other conditions that aren't life-threatening - but need immediate care - some of the most common symptoms we treat include stroke symptoms, breathing difficulties and head injuries. When minutes matter, the Emergency Department, in coordination with our Ambulance Service, is always ready to care for our community 24/7/365.
Our Ambulance Service is here for you, no matter what corner of our 1,200-square-mile district you are in. From Stevens Pass to Blewett Pass and all points in between, this Levy ensures local ambulance service will be there for you, significantly reducing the time between your 911 call and receiving lifesaving care.
This Levy provides continued, dedicated funding to support Paramedics, EMTs, your Ambulance Service, and your hospital Emergency Department, ensuring care is there for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
If you have a question that is not addressed here, please email [email protected].
Why is the EMS Levy necessary?
The cost to operate the 24/7/365 hospital Emergency Department and Ambulance Service runs more than what billing and insurance covers. While fees for these services cover about 60 percent of the costs and Cascade Medical pays for an additional 20 percent with revenue from other services, there is still a significant gap in funding. The EMS Levy covers that critical 20 percent gap, enabling these services to be offered.
Is this a new tax?
No. This is a continuation of the EMS Levy that has been supported by Upper Valley communities (Stevens to Blewett Pass and residents of Leavenworth, Lake Wenatchee/Plain, Dryden, Peshastin and all points in between) for more than 35 years.
How much do we pay?
The rate is the same as the 2019 Levy - 50 cents per thousand of the assessed value of your property. For a home assessed at $500,000, the cost would be about $250 a year, or less than $21 a month.
Is it necessary for Cascade Medical to offer hospital Emergency Services every day, 24 hours a day?
Emergencies happen at all hours of the day and night - and last year Cascade Medical treated nearly 4,500 patients. While our sophisticated Emergency Department treats fractures, stitches, and other conditions that aren’t life-threatening - but need immediate care - some of the most common conditions we treat include stroke symptoms, breathing difficulties and head injuries. When minutes matter, the Emergency Department, in coordination with our Ambulance Services, is always ready to care for our community.
How are Levy funds used?
The Levy funds are used exclusively to operate the hospital Emergency Department and Ambulance Service. This includes:
• Staffing, including emergency physicians and providers, paramedics, EMTs, nursing and other support staff (Lab, Imaging) to maintain 24/7/365 coverage
• Purchasing specialized replacement ambulances and equipment, insurance, fuel, and repairs
• Skills training and education for nurses, paramedics and EMTs
What happens if the Levy isn't renewed?
Because Cascade Medical is a small, rural healthcare organization with limited funds, it's likely we would need to make significant cuts to the Ambulance and Paramedic/EMT services if the Levy fails. We may also need to consider some service changes to the hospital Emergency Department.
If my property value doubles, will the amount I pay for this Levy double?
No. By law, funds generated by the Levy cannot increase more than one percent per year.
What if I live on a fixed income and cannot afford to support the Levy?
If you’re age 62 or older, or have a disability, you may qualify for a tax exemption. Call Chelan County Assessor’s Office at 509-667-6365 for more information.