Commercial air medical transport is a viable and affordable option for many patients. Below are answers to common questions we receive from hospital case managers and families of patients considering commercial air medical transport.
Q: How much does commercial air medical transport cost?
It’s difficult to say without knowing the specific medical condition of the patient or the departing or receiving locations. Plus, factors like time frame, distance, type of ground transportation and necessary equipment are all variables that affect cost. However, commercial air medical transport is a fraction of the cost of other air medical transport solutions, such as a private air ambulance. Typically commercial air medical transport is 60% - 70% less expensive than a private air ambulance.
Q: What is the difference between commercial air medical transport and an air ambulance?
Aside from the cost implications, there are three primary distinctions between a commercial air medical transport and an air ambulance:
- Vehicle - An air ambulance uses a smaller, private plane as the vehicle. Commercial air medical transport uses a commercial passenger jet as the vehicle.
- Passengers – An air ambulance only carries the passengers needed for the medical transport and occasionally a few of the patient’s family members. In a commercial air medical transport, there are other passengers on the plane traveling to the destination for their own personal reasons.
- Medical Situation – An air ambulance is often the best solution for a critical patient, while commercial air medical transports are best suited for patients that are more stable.
Q: How does the patient get to and from the airport?
The mode of ground transportation to and from the airport is dependent on the patient’s medical condition. If the patient is stable and able to get in and out a car with minimal assistance, SentinelMED will arrange a private town car service to and from the airport. If the patient requires greater assistance or is very ill, an ambulance can be arranged to and from the airport. Either way, the medical escort accompanies the patient during ground transportation for additional support and assistance.
Q: How does the patient navigate the airport?
With commercial air medical transport, a medical escort is with the patient every step of the way. The medical escort not only accompanies the patient from their residence or current medical facility to the airport, but also facilitates the patient through security and customs, boarding, and beyond. For more limited patients, SentinelMED can even arrange for the ambulance to pull up right to the plane on the tarmac for easier boarding.
Q: How can we avoid getting turned away from the plane?
Most airlines will require medical clearance prior to the flight. The airlines do collect medical information on the patient, and the airline medical team may refuse a passenger if they feel the person is unfit for traveling on their aircraft. This verification and screening process can take 1 to 7 days, depending on the airline and patient’s medical condition. With SentinelMED’s expertise and understanding of the commercial air industry, we can ensure the proper clearances for any situation we feel is an appropriate fit for a commercial air medical transport. We have spent years building relationships with domestic and international airlines so that there are no surprises for any patient when they arrive at the airport.
Q: Is it possible to receive medication and oxygen on a commercial air medical transport?
Yes. All of SentinelMED’s medical escorts travel with extensive medical kits and if necessary, portable oxygen concentrators, which can provide up to three liters of oxygen supplementation. Further, because a Physician is involved in every step of a patient’s transport with SentinelMED, the escorts have access to more classes of medications while on board to ensure the patient is comfortable throughout flight.
Q: How do I know if I am eligible for commercial air medical transport?
We have a detailed screening process to determine the most appropriate and safest mode of transport for each patient. Patient safety is our priority. The medical team at SentinelMED will review your medical case and confirm your condition with your treating physician to determine if you are eligible for commercial air medical transport. If it is determined that your specific situation is not well suited for commercial air medical transport, then SentinelMED can make recommendations or accommodations for a private ambulance.
Q: What type of travel documents will I need?
Per TSA guidelines, all adult passengers 18 and older must show valid identification at the airport checkout in order to travel. If traveling domestically, a government issued photo ID is recommended. For international flights, a passport is required. Certain countries require additional documentation for departure, entry, or transit through their country. If a patient is unable to produce the necessary travel documentation, SentinelMED can work with the patient’s home country’s consulate to procure the proper documentation.
Q: Will my insurance company cover commercial air medical transport?
If you have insurance, we recommend that you reach out to them for details about your coverage as it relates to commercial air medical transport. If an insurance company does cover commercial air medical transports, then they often have specific in-network vendors that are covered under your policy. It’s best to confirm that there are not any in-network providers before turning to SentinelMED.
Arrange an Affordable Commercial Air Medical Transport Service
Each medical situation is different and every individual’s health needs vary significantly. SentinelMED is a medical travel assistance company that knows the ins and outs of commercial air medical transport. Our team of qualified logistics and medical professionals are able to arrange an affordable commercial air medical transport and help manage the process from bed-to-bed. 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.
