There are many different situations in which a family member might need medical transport. But the type of transport required, and the cost associated with it, depends on the specific needs of the individual. Although transport by air or ground ambulance may be the first options that come to mind, there are other ways that sick, injured or elderly patients can be transported in safety and comfort to receive appropriate medical care. Here is an overview on medical transport services:
- Air ambulance. Broadly defined, an air ambulance is a specially equipped fixed-wing aircraft or helicopter that is used to transport people who are critically ill or injured over long distances, or over terrain that is difficult or prohibitive to cross by a traditional ground ambulance. Air ambulances are typically staffed by paramedics, EMTS or nurses. An air ambulance is usually the most expensive form of medical transport. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, the average air ambulance flight covers 52 miles and costs between $12,000 and $25,000.
- Air medical transport on commercial airlines. This is a good option for travelers who become sick or injured and must travel long distances to return home or for ongoing medical treatment. Because patients travel on available seats on commercial airlines – sometimes accompanied by a medical escort – air medical transport on commercial airlines is more cost-effective than transport by air ambulance.
- Medical escort. Medical escorts are trained medical professionals who travel with patients to ensure their comfort and safety, and to administer medical care as necessary. Medical escorts often assist people who have chronic illnesses and cannot travel without assistance. Medical escorts are typically trained in intensive care or emergency medicine, and work with airline personnel to ensure all necessary accommodations are made for the traveler.
- Ground medical transport by ambulance. This form of transportation is usually provided by a local ambulance service that transports a patient to a nearby hospital. These ambulances are typically staffed by paramedics or EMTs. The cost of a ride to a hospital in an ambulance can vary greatly, depending on whether a patient has insurance and the type of insurance he or she has.
- Non-emergency medical transport by van. Vans used for this purpose typically transport non-ambulatory patients over hundreds of miles in non-emergency situations, such as transporting a person from a nursing home in one state to one in a neighboring state. The van’s on-board caregiver may have basic medical training and may help feed or turn a patient, but is typically not licensed to perform emergency medical care.
Medical Transport Services from SentinelMED
A medical transport service, such as SentinelMED, can help individuals and their family members make important decisions about medical transportation. SentinelMED provides domestic and international medical transport and medical repatriation services for travelers who have more serious or complicated medical concerns. SentinelMED also can arrange for medical escorts to accompany travelers and help them navigate the complexities of long-distance travel.
These services can benefit travelers who suffer a serious injury or illness while far from home, as well as older adults who need assistance when traveling to visit loved ones. The SentinelMED team can arrange door-to-door transportation so these travelers can make the journey in safety and comfort.
The SentinelMED team understands the complexity of delivering exceptional care to patients who need assistance during travel. Please contact us to learn more about the services that SentinelMED offers or its staff.
