MedGuard

NAVAC participates in the MedGuard community ambulance subscription program, along with seven other Central New York ambulance corps.

When you dial 911 you expect an ambulance to arrive quickly and to have everything turn out for the best.  In order to meet that expectation we have to train personnel, stock and maintain ambulances, maintain expensive medical equipment, and staff our ambulances - all before your call for assistance comes.  It is very expensive for us to maintain that preparedness, and as we have said elsewhere we receive little tax money to do so.

Many people have loyally donated to NAVAC's fund drive every year.  When they have eventually used our services they have asked whether their donations can be applied to their bills.   While we would like very much to do this, health care and insurance regulations prohibit this.

A subscription program, like MedGuard, provides a solution to both of these issues.  It is crucial for us to receive funding before your emergency call, so that we are prepared to respond when that call comes.   In fact if each of the households in our coverage area donated $45 each year our funding needs would be met, and we would not have to charge for our services.  The subscription also eliminates any out-of-pocket expense you may incur should you use our services. 

Click here for a form to subscribe.

Med Guard Subscription Frequently Asked Questions

What/how many ambulances are covered under the membership?

Eight, East Area Volunteer Emergency Services (EAVES), Greater Baldwinsville Ambulance Corps (GBAC), Marcellus Area Volunteer Emergency Services (MAVES), North Area Volunteer Ambulance Corps (NAVAC), Northern Onondaga Volunteer Ambulance (NOVA), Skaneateles Area Volunteer Emergency Services (SAVES), Southern Oswego Volunteer Ambulance Corps (SOVAC) and Western Area Volunteer Emergency Services (WAVES). The cost for the membership remains at $40.00 for senior citizens (65 or older) $45.00 if you are not. 

What types of things will my membership cover?

Any balances on your account if one of the participating ambulances ever transports you.  For example: deductibles, co-pays, any uncovered services and patients without insurance.  It covers everyone residing in the household.  If someone is visiting and uses the ambulance, it is not covered.

Who do I make my check payable to?

The ambulance that services your residential area.  Ex: Liverpool would be NAVAC or NOVA.  Most people know what ambulance covers their area.  *Please make sure you write their membership number on your check*

If I live in the Town of Salina should I get this membership?

The town of Salina currently covers any remaining balances from a NAVAC bill for ambulance service, including deductibles, co-pays, etc.  Additionally the town is making arrangements to cover balances if an ambulance other than NAVAC transports you.  We also ask you to consider making a donation to NAVAC.

I have Medicaid or Medicaid HMO, should I get this membership?

Medicaid is considered paid in full as long as you are transported to the hospital.  

If I want to send in more than $40.00 or $45.00, can I do that on one check or do I have to send in two?

You can send in one check.  You should mark MedGuard on the memo portion of the check with your membership number. 

How can I guarantee that one of the participating ambulances will transport us if we need them?

There is no guarantee that one of the ambulances will be available, however, you can request one of the covered ambulances.  There is always a possibility that they are unavailable, in that case, 911 would dispatch the closest, most available ambulance.  If an ambulance other than one of the participating agencies do the transport, the membership will not cover the bill.

I am only here during the summer, the rest of the year I go south, will I have to pay the full charge?

The membership still needs to be paid in full as your membership is effective for a full year, whether you are here or out of town.

I am 66 years old and my spouse is 64 years old, how much do I have to pay?

Put the membership under your name and please send in $40.00. 

Will I receive a membership card?

Two membership cards are issued per residence for new members. Anyone who had a membership and is renewing will be receiving their card and a notice rather than a renewal form. It is not necessary for everyone to carry the card with them at all times.  If they are ever transported,you could mention it to the crew, but we have your information stored in our computer. 

I can’t find my card, can you send me another one?

It is not necessary to carry the card for service.  It is not a problem to send a new card, please contact the agency you purchased your membership from for a replacement card.

When does this membership expire?

The Membership runs from July 1 (or when we receive payment in full) to June 30, 2007.  All memberships will expire on that date regardless of purchase date.

Can I claim this on my taxes next year?

Donations are tax deductible.  If you purchase the membership you can check with your accountant regarding any deductions.

Please remember that this is not an insurance policy,
it is a membership program that covers co-payments and deductibles.