First Response Advanced Life
Support (FRALS) Agreement
Public Safety Subcommittee
January 23, 2024
1 Scott Westrope, Fire Chief
Jack Thomas, Division Chief
Background
• On June 6, 2023, the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors was presented a report from Department of Health Services (DHS) Director Tina Rivera regarding the “Emergency Medical Services Exclusive Operating Agreement RFP Results and Recommendation”
• The recommendations of the report were that the Board of Supervisors authorize the Director of DHS execute a 5-year contract for emergency ground ambulance service in Sonoma County Exclusive Operating Area 1 with Sonoma County Fire District that includes an option to extend for an additional 5 years. After lengthy public comment on the matter, the Board of Supervisors voted 5-0 in support of the recommendation.
• Santa Rosa Fire Department has held a First Response Advanced Life Support (FRALS) contract with the previous contractor since 2004. • As an integral part of the robust EMS system in EOA-1, it was included in the ground ambulance contract that the SRFD FRALS program continue under the new contractor.
2 FRALS Partnership Agreement
Negotiated in good faith between the SRFD and City Attorney’s Office with the Sonoma County Fire District.
Agreement took effect January 16, 2024
Expiration of agreement aligns with the ground ambulance contract:
• Initial term ends January 15, 2029;
• Ability to extend with five-year extension of GAC to January 15, 2034 Strategy of negotiation:
• Focus on service to community
• Enhance operations and improve operational control
• Fortify open communication and data sharing
• Build a financially sustainable model and agreement
3 FRALS Partnership Agreement
Key components:
• Service area definition: Clearly defined service area for the City’s primary delivery of service allowing City resources to be utilized and concentrated within the City limits.
• Response time framework: Use of the City response time standards under the GAC.
• Reciprocal obligations for the City and SCFD: Obligations of both parties are more consistent and cooperative.
• Substantial change reopeners: Provides opportunity to reopen discussions as required.
• Joint Development and Support of EMS Enhancements: Provides opportunity to partner on systemwide enhancements to provide increased service. • Data Sharing: codifies data sharing between parties.
4 FRALS Partnership Agreement
Key components:
• Compensation: The City of Santa Rosa will receive $1.5M per year for FRALS service
• Complete cost recovery
• Annual adjustment based on GAC rate adjustment
• Medical Director
• PSA held by the City of Santa Rosa
• Continuous Quality Improvement Program
• Mutual Aid Agreement for surge ambulance protection
• Development of EMS Subscription or First Responder Fee Program 5 Questions?
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