(BUFFALO, N.Y.) – U.S. Representative Thomas M. Reynolds, R- Clarence, was recognized today by the United New York Ambulance Network (UNYAN) for his dedicated service and outstanding leadership to the ambulance industry. UNYAN presented the Western New York Congressman with its Legislative Recognition Award.
"Emergency and ambulance services play a vital role in keeping our communities safe and our citizens healthy," Reynolds said. "Time and again I hear from local ambulance personnel in Western New York that insufficient reimbursements jeopardize the care they are able to provide. I am proud to lead the fight in Congress working to ensure fair reimbursement payments; and it is a honor to be recognized for that effort."
In May, Congressman Reynolds was recognized by the American Ambulance Association (AAA) for his nationwide leadership. Reynolds has been instrumental in his continued efforts to obtain additional Medicare relief for all ambulance service providers. At the end of the last Congress, Representative Reynolds introduced the Medicare Ambulance Payment Reform and Rural Equity Act, which would reimburse ambulance services based on the cost of providing services, implement an improved definition of rural, and provide additional reimbursement for low volume rural providers.
“The AAA is proud to have the opportunity to honor Tom Reynolds,” said Bob Garner, President of the AAA. “Our members’ services are on the frontline of delivering pre-hospital care as an integral part of our nation’s health care continuum and Congressman Reynolds is a leader who recognizes the hard work these professional first responders offer.”
The members of UNYAN agree with the AAA. “Congressman Reynolds has shown his dedication to not only New York’s ambulance industry, but to our patients, who rely on us to provide the highest level of emergency care available,” said Mark Zeek, Chairman of UNYAN. “We couldn’t do what we do everyday, without support from Legislators such as Congressman Reynolds,” he added.

“It is a real honor to see Tom receive the recognition of the entire state of New York for the extraordinary work we in Western New York see each and every day”, says Rob Zachrich, General Manger of Rural/Metro Medical Services. “Tom’s leadership is making a real difference in our industry and making it possible to bring top notch care to those who need us.”
UNYAN represents private ambulance services that provide 911 ambulance services to 22 of the 25 largest cities in New York State, and 50 of the State’s 62 counties. Comprised of more than thirty ambulance services, UNYAN’s members also provide the majority of medical inter-facility ambulance service. UNYAN members employ nearly 5,000 Paramedics, Emergency Medical Technicians, and related personnel, ensuring emergency medical care and ambulance services to over 14 million urban, suburban, and rural New Yorkers.