Affordable medical insurance should be provided to volunteer emergency responders and firefighters. This is the example set by the state of New York.
First Responders Deserve Nothing Less
This is definitely the message conveyed by the New York state. It is expected that all other state governments in the United States and probably all other governments across the world would look at the example it is setting. New York recently implemented a law that would offer and provide affordable medical insurance for first responders, which include volunteer ambulance workers and firefighters.
The Laws of 2010's Chapter 71 is mandating all municipalities in New York State to provide first responders with affordable medical insurance policies. This includes the New York State Health Insurance Plan (NYSHIP) that is currently being offered by about 900 local governments across the state to their current employees. The move is an obvious step to reward such professionals for rendering all the hard work and facing all possible challenges and dangers just so they could fulfill their duties. No one could contest the nobility and greatness of first-responders, who are there to give help and necessary assistance in almost any emergency.
There is one clarification for this program, though. Payments for the costs of health insurance coverage would still be the volunteer's responsibility. However, overall costs for healthcare insurance through local government units, particularly NYSHIP, would definitely be much lower compared to what the same volunteer first-responders would shoulder if they pay for a private health insurance policy.
The Law Is Fully Supported By Firemen's Association Of The State Of New York
It is expected to effectively help attract and lure new recruits to enlist or join volunteer fire and emergency companies. Right now, fire-fighting firms in the state are having a very hard time convincing new and potential recruits to join them. Through this health insurance move, it is expected that many volunteers would appreciate the gesture and they would be convinced to assume first responders responsibilities.
Affordable medical insurance has always been scarce and sought after not just in New York but in other states and countries as well. Many workers and volunteers for government institutions and non-government organizations are usually drawn back and turned off by the high health insurance costs they have to shoulder. This is despite the lean compensations and benefits they get from assuming public responsibilities.
It is expected that this example would be looked upon by the healthcare insurance industry as well. Many hope that private health insurers would also follow suit in offering first responders and other civic volunteers with perks in the form of more affordable medical insurance policies. This way, the spirit of volunteerism would surely be kept on.