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Access to medical care is a basic life necessity. Unfortunately, every year a good number of people lose their lives during medical emergencies because they are not able to access medical care fast enough.
Medical transportation is important in getting patients to a healthcare facility on time. Since no one can predict when a medical emergency will arise, it is best to learn about the Medical transport services options available for you. This will make it easy for you to make the right choice when a medical emergency arises.
Types of Medical Transport Services
There are two types of services provided by medical transport depending on the need and requirements of the patient. They include emergency transport services and non-emergency transport services. Both types of service are usually equipped with paramedics, emergency medical personnel, and highly trained drivers.
Emergency Medical Transport
This type of transport is usually used in cases of emergencies such as an accident, a heart attack, respiratory difficulties, stroke, etc. It is used to keep the situation under control before the patient gets to the hospital. There are different kinds of emergency transport which include the following:
- Basic Life Support Transportation (BLS)
BLS transport comprises onboard medical technicians who aid and monitor the patients using advanced medical equipment. They can also run tests or carry out some medical procedures. This helps to save time which is vital in an emergency.
- Advanced Life Support Transportation (ALS)
As the name implies, this medical transport service is more advanced than BLS transport. The transport vehicle also contains certified paramedics and medical equipment such as ECG monitors, heart paddles, heart monitors, and IV units. It is especially necessary for stabilising patients who are undergoing trauma.
- Critical Care Transport (CCT)
CCT transport is generally used for transporting patients who need critical care between medical facilities and hospitals. They usually have registered nurses, depending on how difficult the situation is.
- Neonatal Intensive Care Transport
This is used in transporting infants who need intensive medical care
- Air Ambulance
Flight services are used in emergencies to transport patients to medical facilities that are far away or in a foreign country so as to get the necessary medical attention.
Non-emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)
Non-emergency medical transport medical services help to transport patients to medical facilities for check-ups. It also transports them to scheduled medical appointments. The different kinds of non-emergency medical transports include:
- Ambulatory Service
Ambulatory services come in handy in both emergency and non-emergency transport. For NEMT cases, they are used for patients who need the basic support of medical assistance. The vehicles are not fully equipped in case of an emergency.
- Wheelchair
This service is used particularly for patients who cannot walk without extra assistance. In some situations, the patients may need to be transferred from the wheelchair into a vehicle. Usually, this is carried out by trained CPR drivers. The vehicles are also fitted with proper restraints so that the wheelchair remains stable throughout the ride.
- Stretchers
Stretchers are used for transporting patients who can neither stand nor sit, e.g.; patients with a spinal cord injury. It can be used to move the patient from his home to the medical facility and also within the facility.
- Flight Escorts
Unlike emergency flights, this is used when a patient wishes to travel by air but still needs to stay under medical supervision.
- Courier service
Courier services are used in transporting biological materials, such as organs, blood, etc, to hospitals or research institutions. They are usually confidential services.
Are Medical Transport Services Free?
Emergency medical transport services are sometimes covered by health insurance. So you may not be required to pay for it out of pocket. However, the case is not always the same for non-emergency medical transport.
There's no fixed price for NEMT services, as prices vary across different transport services. But here's an overview of what it may likely cost you.
Ambulatory service
For ambulatory service, the base rate can cost between $25 - $30. During weekends or off hours, it may cost between $30 - $40 and $35 - $45 during holiday periods.
Wheelchair
The base rate for wheelchair services may likely cost between $45 - $50. During weekends and off hours, it may cost between $75 - $90 and $85 - $100 during holidays.
Stretchers
For stretchers, the base rate may cost between $100 - $200. $125 - $225 during weekends or off hours, and $150 - $250 during the holidays.
Some NEMT services also consider the mileage when stating their quotes. The mileage rate often depends on the distance they have to cover to carry the patient. Mileage rates can cost between $3-$10 per mile. Also, there can be additional costs attached if an additional attendant is needed on the trip.
Benefits of Medical Transport Services
They are Accessible and Fast
Medical transport services can be accessed anywhere, irrespective of your location, and they can take you to any location where you need to get medical care. Not only that, they can get to you quicker than other options. This is because medical transport are always considered a priority, so they have an advantage in traffic situations. Also, with flight services, you're sure to get too far distances quickly without delays.
They are Convenient
Medical transports are tailored to meet the needs of patients in different situations. The vehicles used are always convenient and can accommodate wheelchairs and stretchers. This allows the patient to remain comfortable while receiving preliminary medical care.
They are Medically Equipped
Medical transport services are usually fully equipped to manage emergency situations before the patients arrive at the hospital. This gives the patients higher chances of survival, unlike the regular transport service with no medical equipment.
Medical transport services are an absolute necessity in healthcare, especially during emergencies. They are always one step ahead in ensuring that you or your loved one get quick medical attention. They can also provide a variety of services to suit your needs and keep you comfortable all through the process.
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