Have you ever considered medical transportation? The chances are that you’ve never thought of it. Most people don’t – until they need it. It’s best to be prepared so that a little research now can go a long way later.
You may need medical transportation for a myriad of reasons, as unpleasant as it may be to think about it. A relative suddenly falls sick – now what? What do you do? There are decisions to be made in a matter of minutes, e.g., how to transport them to the ER quickly and safely.
Moving them may not be in the list of decisions because their condition doesn’t allow it, or because you may need to tend to them on the way there. Here is where medical transportation comes in.
There are a plethora of medical transportation options, and it’s essential to know them before you need them. In this article, we will shed light on the different options because why wait for a medical emergency to consider your options?
GROUND AMBULANCES
You’ve probably seen or been on one of these before. Ground ambulances are the most common and well-known mode of medical transport available. The vehicles are fitted with equipment that is essential for saving lives en route to the hospital and have a team of trained medical staff onboard.
Long-distance ground ambulances are ideal for patients who are not too far from their ideal destinations, those who fear flying. Long-distance ground ambulances fit patients into one of three categories: basic life support (BLS), advanced life support (ALS), or critical care transport (CCT). Paramedics on board are selected based on these three categories.
HELICOPTER AIR AMBULANCE
Helicopter air ambulances are often used within cities or states and are usually the first response to an emergency. For instance, you’ve probably seen helicopters responding to a road accident, a situation where ambulances would be a much slower option.
Helicopter air ambulances are preferred due to their ability to land directly at a hospital and often transport trauma victims by taking them to local trauma centers.
Companies like Medical Repatriation UK equip every helicopter with standard intensive care equipment, with the option to install additional medical equipment depending on patient requirements.
FIXED WING AIR AMBULANCE
Think of this as an ER at 40,000 feet. Fixed-wing air ambulances are by far the best and fastest mode of medical repatriation typically over long distances. Depending on the company, air ambulances can be dispatched instantly to take you where you need to go safely.
Reputable air ambulance companies will often fly globally, have planes equipped to handle any medical emergency that may arise mid-flight, and have an expert critical care team to ensure you receive the right care from the moment you take off until you land at your destination.
NON-EMERGENCY MEDICAL TRANSPORT
Non-Emergency Medical Transportation is yet another delicate and essential service. This form of transport is suitable for anyone with mobility problems, designed to help them receive their medical treatment quickly. It has a host of benefits such as trained transportation coordinators and vehicles specially tailored to patient needs.
Non-Emergency Medical Transportation makes life easier for anyone with problems getting around, making the trip to the health center a smooth one. It’s the preferred option over something like a taxi because Non-Emergency Medical Transportation companies ensure they hire certified, reliable drivers.
