This one’s a little odd, in that it doesn’t easily fall into the “can” or “can’t” category.

But it does converge two of my favorite memes: health care reform and 911 stories…

Ricky Alardo, a homeless alcoholic nicknamed Ricky Ricardo, swigs cheap vodka by day at his favorite corner in Washington Heights, then calls an ambulance to chauffeur him to the hospital for a free meal and a warm place to sleep, courtesy of taxpayers who fund his Medicaid benefits.

This guy calls for a ride 4 to 5 times a week.

Alardo Ricardo is not alone in his use of the system. Estimates are that there are “dozens” of these guys around NYC. (But of course, no one keeps records.)

The affable Ricky has rung up almost $4 Million in expenses over the last several years. All paid for by you and me. (Well, not so much me- how about “by the taxpayer.”)

And don’t look for things to change any time soon. The law takes the position that the homeless are entitled to this care. Ambulance drivers can’t refuse to transport them. ERs can’t refuse treatment.

But I’m sure it will all get better when we all have the same government health plan. Right?