Subject:
Title
Issuance of a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity to 1st Choice Trans, L.L.C. for provision of non-medical wheelchair transport services.
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Recommended Action:
Recommended Action
Sitting as the Emergency Medical Services Authority (Authority), issue a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (COPCN) to 1st Choice Trans L.L.C. to provide wheelchair transport services.
• This firm has completed an application and meets the Authority’s requirement to operate as a non-medical wheelchair transport provider.
• There are currently 12 firms that hold a COPCN to provide wheelchair and/or stretcher van transport services. 7 of those 12 firms are approved to provide both wheelchair and stretcher van services.
• If approved, this COPCN will expire on June 30, 2023.
• There is no fee for certification. Staff administration of the process is included in the annual operating budget for the EMS Fund.
Authorize the Chairman to sign the certificates.
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Strategic Plan:
Ensure Public Health, Safety, and Welfare
2.1 Provide planning, coordination, prevention, and protective services to ensure a safe and secure community.
Deliver First Class Services to the Public and Our Customers
5.1 Maximize partner relationships and public outreach.
5.3 Ensure effective and efficient delivery of county services and support.
Summary:
Summary
1st Choice Trans, L.L.C. has met the Authority’s requirement to operate as a non-medical wheelchair transport provider in Pinellas County.
If approved, this COPCN will expire on June 30, 2023.
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Background Information:
Pursuant to Pinellas County Code, Chapter 54, firms providing Wheelchair/Stretcher Van Transportation Services are required to obtain a COPCN in order to operate in Pinellas County. For each service provider, the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division of Safety and Emergency Services provides various administrative duties such as keeping records, verifying forms, updating vehicle and driver rosters, reviewing Certificates of Incorporation, Certification of Fictitious Names, insurance verification forms, and retail rate forms. EMS also performs vehicle inspections on thirteen
(13) criteria for each transport vehicle. Some providers have dozens of vehicles.
Fiscal Impact:
There is no fee for certification. Staff administration of the process is included in the annual operating budget for the EMS Fund.
Staff Member Responsible:
James G. Fogarty, Director, Safety and Emergency Services
Partners:
1st Choice Trans, L.L.C.
Attachments:
Provider Agency List
COPCN Certificate
COPCN Application