PASADENA, Calif. — The Pasadena Fire Department is offering a new program to help residents avoid unexpected ambulance bills. For $85 annually, people who sign up for the Pasadena Paramedic Subscription Service will be able to access unlimited use of the department’s emergency medical system.

“When you need paramedics, cost should not be a concern,” the department said on its website announcing the new program. 

The Fire Department says an ambulance ride can cost as much as $3,000. Even individuals with medical insurance to help pay for it are often still on the hook for $50 to $500 because their insurance may deny the charge or only pay for part of it.

The paramedic subscription covers all emergency medical services provide by the department within city limits and includes transportation to local medical facilities. The membership covers individual subscribers and household members related to them by blood, marriage or adoption, including registered domestic partners and foster children.

To sign up for the voluntary program, visit the Pasadena Fire Department website to download an enrollment form.