Subject:
Title
Issuance of a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity to 1st Choice Trans, LLC for provision of non-medical wheelchair transport services.
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Recommended Action:
Recommended Action
Sitting as the Emergency Medical Services Authority, issue a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (COPCN) to 1st Choice Trans, LLC to provide non-medical 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 11 firms that hold a COPCN to provide wheelchair and/or stretcher van transport services. 5 of those 11 firms are approved to provide both non-medical wheelchair and stretcher van transport services.
• If approved, the new COPCN will expire on June 30, 2024.
• Certificates approved during this period will be renewed in June 2024 as part of the annual batch renewal process.
• The issuance of this certificate will have no fiscal impact on Pinellas County.
Authorize the Chairman to sign the certificate.
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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 LLC has met the Authority’s requirement to operate as a non-medical wheelchair transport services provider.
If approved, the new COPCN will expire on June 30, 2024.
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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 LLC
Attachments:
Provider Agency List
COPCN Certificate
COPCN Application