When the August 2024 wildfires swept through Spokane, many families scrambled to escape the smoke and flames. For Penny Hamblin, a longtime Spokane resident who relies on a ventilator and suffers from heart and respiratory failure, the evacuation turned into a costly ordeal.
Evacuation and ambulance rides
Hamblin, who spends most of her days in bed, called 911 twice as the fire threatened her home. Police and emergency responders arrived, moved her bed onto a couch, and transported her to her daughter’s vehicle. From there, she was taken to Holy Family Hospital for two days of care before being transferred to St. Luke’s on August 3.
The transport to St. Luke’s was provided by Advance Life System Ambulance. Hamblin was evacuated for a total of nine days, and a second ambulance was required to bring her home after she received clearance to return.
Bill shock and insurance response
According to Hamblin’s statement, the first ambulance trip covered just under five miles, while the return trip was 9.5 miles. The combined charges exceeded $3,000. Her insurance stepped in, reducing the amount owed, but she was still left with a balance of $580.
When Hamblin reached out to Advance Life System for assistance, she was told the claim had been reviewed and denied. Facing a fixed income, she placed the balance on a credit card and worries about damaging her credit.
Broader implications
Hamblin’s experience underscores the hidden financial pressures that wildfire evacuations can place on the most vulnerable residents. While emergency services saved lives, the cost of ambulance transport can quickly become a burden for those on limited incomes.
Local officials and health‑care providers have not yet commented on the specific billing practices of the ambulance service. Nonstop Local, the outlet that originally reported the story, has attempted to contact Advance Life System for clarification but has not received a response.
What residents can do
Patients facing similar bills are encouraged to review their insurance policies, request detailed itemized statements, and explore state or local assistance programs that may offer relief for emergency medical transport costs. Community organizations and faith‑based groups often provide emergency financial aid, and reaching out to them early can help prevent credit damage.
As Spokane continues to recover from the wildfire season, stories like Hamblin’s remind the community that recovery is not only about rebuilding homes but also about ensuring that the most vulnerable are not left struggling with unexpected medical expenses.
Original reporting: KHQ Spokane (news) — read the source article.
