What is Long Distance Ambulance

People use a long distance ambulance to transport themselves or a loved one in non-emergency situations. This medical transportation option ensures patients travel safely by either ground-based transport or commercial air travel.

The main goal in using a long distance ambulance and non-emergency medical transport is to ensure the patient has medical attention during their journey and arrives safely at their destination.

Often, those being transferred are seniors traveling to or from an assisted living facility, cancer treatment center, nursing home or home healthcare facility. They may also have been discharged in stable condition from a top US hospital and simply need to return home.

The Value of Non-Emergency Medical Transport

A trip is generally considered to be long distance if it is more than 200 miles. Using non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) is a popular medical transportation option. While it can involve the use of a long distance ambulance, it often involves commercial airline travel, accompanied by an experienced flight nurse.

People use medical transportation for a variety of reasons. They include:

• Senior travelers taking a vacation or making a trip to see family
• Those injured while on vacation who are coming back home
• Patients transferring from one medical facility to another
• Travelers with a disability or chronic condition that impedes movement
• Seniors who are moving to a new area
• Frequent medical conditions for NEMT patients include Alzheimer’s, cancer, dementia, stabilized bone fractures, post-operative patients and those who are wheelchair-bound.

Ground vs. Air Transportation

For patient who are able to sit in a First Class Seat companies such as Flying Angels can book a flight for patients, coordinate with the airlines and airports along the route, handle international flights and provide an experienced RN as a flight nurse.

For patients who are unable to sit in a First Class Seat there are there are several providers, including our friends at Jitterbug Travel, who offer long distance NEMT in a luxury motor-coach.

Both ground and air transportation have their advantages. Transportation on a commercial airline also means patients reach their destination faster than if they use ground transportation. Long distance ground transportation may be more comfortable for the client.

Both commercial air transport and long distance ground transport are also far less expensive than using an air ambulance, which is the most expensive transportation option. Whatever method you choose, it’s important to know that patients have options when it comes to medical transportation. With the modern services available, patients can quickly and safely reach their destination while enjoying the most comfortable situation possible.

Safe Travels, Bob