I had an interesting conversation with Ken Keller of AMR this week regarding their request that the Shawnee County Commission increase ambulance rates for people who exceed a certain weight.

In case you missed it, starting today (July 1), rates for those who exceed 350 pounds or who need critical care will nearly double, from $629 to $1172. Keller explained that AMR has invested in special equipment designed to make transporting what are called "bariatric" patients safer. He says the bariatric ambulance is usually on standby to dispatch to a scene when they know of a patient's size in advance or if they come upon a scene and are able to get it there without delaying a patient's transport. In short, they will it for bariatric patients whenever possible. If not, they will continue to use the smaller cot and regularly equipped ambulance they have used for years. I asked him half tongue-in-cheek if that meant an overweight patient could call 911 and request the cheaper ride if they wanted. He said that hasn't come up.

Kidding aside, the bariatric ambulance is meant to be safer and more comfortable for the patients. Targeting the rate increase only to those who use it for recouping the cost would, on the surface, seem reasonable. I don't want to be charged for something I don't want or need.

But targeting anything at one population based on a specific attribute is bound to cause a stir. Let me say, I come from a family where obesity is a major concern. Some of my relatives would likely be assessed the higher rate. Every time I hear a fat joke, it makes me a bit sad. With that in mind, part of me reacts with a feeling that this is another example of how people who are overweight are unfairly judged by society.

In the end, I understand but am still torn. Where do you fall in these discussions? Feel free to "weigh in."