There are two primary types of air medical transportation: private air ambulance and commercial air medical transport. Here, we discuss the pros and cons of the two types of air medical transportation and which type is best suited for varying patient needs and medical transport situations.
Private Air Ambulance Flight
A private air ambulance is used in both emergency and non-emergency situations. Because they can be arranged very quickly – in a matter of hours in most cases – it is the ideal means of air medical transportation when a patient has a time sensitive, critical condition. These flights can maintain sea level equivalent cabin pressure and can accommodate patients with a higher oxygen level requirement. Because these aircraft are subject to restrictions on fuel due to their size, they typically have small windows of four-hour flight times. Private air ambulance flights are best suited when a runway is available at the departing and destination locations and the flight is less than four hours.
This type of air medical transportation requires private pilots and staff. There are typically no other passengers to absorb the cost of fuel and the aircraft maintenance. Plus, when flying lower altitudes at slower speeds to maintain sea-level cabin pressure, fuel costs increase. Therefore, private air ambulance flights can cost upwards of $20,000 or more. However, the private aircraft can travel to smaller cities where commercial airlines would not be able to land. They also offer the most customization and flexibility in flight departure, arrival times, and flight plans.
Commercial Air Medical Transport
A commercial air medical transport is used in non-emergency situations when a patient is stable enough to be transported at any time. In some instances, such as international trips, a commercial air medical transportation can be used when the patient is intubated and stretchered. A patient is a good fit for commercial air medical transportation if their oxygen needs are in a range that is acceptable for a portable oxygen concentrator on a commercial air flight. In addition, commercial air medical transports are a great solution for both long and short distances, as well as domestic and international destinations.
Because this type of air medical transportation relies on commercial airline staff, and there are typically other passengers on the flight to absorb the cost of fuel and aircraft maintenance, the costs of commercial air medical transport are much more affordable. Patients typically pay for the commercial air ticket, a medical escort and small fees for luggage or medical equipment. However, with commercial air medical transports, travel logistics must be arranged around the flight departure and arrival times of the commercial airline. Further, both the departing and destination locations require a nearby commercial airport.
Arrange an Affordable Air Medical Transport Service
SentinelMED is a medical travel assistance company that knows the ins and outs of air medical transports. Our team of qualified logistics and medical professionals are able to determine the appropriate form of affordable medical transportation service and help manage and plan the process from end-to-end. We understand the complexity of delivering exceptional care to the sick, elderly or injured patient in an unfamiliar environment. Please contact us if you’d like to learn more about our services and staff.
