Multi-Carrier System (MCS) Guidelines

30.1 - Multi-Carrier System (MCS) Guidelines (Rev. 1696; Issued: 03-06-09; Effective/Implementation Date: 04-06-09) B3-5116 Payment under the fee schedule for ambulance services: • Includes a base rate payment plus a payment for mileage; • Covers both the transport of the beneficiary to the nearest appropriate facility and all items and services associated with such transport; and • Precludes a separate payment for items and services furnished under the ambulance benefit. Payment for items and services is included in the fee schedule payment. Such items and services include but are not limited to oxygen, drugs, extra attendants, and EKG testing - but only when such items and services are both medically necessary and covered by Medicare under the ambulance benefit.