How to Choose an Air Ambulance Provider
When Is an Air Ambulance Needed?
There are many reasons someone might need an air ambulance. One of the most common is when individuals require emergency treatment for severe injuries. Vacationing in a foreign country is a fantastic experience, but some countries don’t have the capacity to treat serious accidents and conditions. In these cases, many people have to fly to the nearest medical facility that can accommodate them.
If a person has a long-term condition, then they may be flown to another treatment center so they’re closer to family. Commercial flights may be unable to accommodate someone with a serious injury, so an air ambulance can provide transportation. One of the most popular reasons for an air ambulance is to provide transport for organ donations. If you’re looking for an air ambulance, then here are some tips to choose the best provider.
Consider the Cost
Air ambulances vary in cost, and the amount you’ll be billed depends on numerous factors. Each airline has a different cost, and it also depends on how much care the patient needs during the flight. It’s important you look at the different packages available and receive a quote from the air ambulance provider.
The biggest impact on cost is whether the person has insurance that covers the flight. In some cases a policy will cover the costs if a doctor decides the flight is necessary. However, you should always check with your insurance company before booking an air ambulance. If they decide the flight wasn’t essential, they might refuse to pay which leaves you with a large bill.
Consider the Best
It’s great when you find something at a low price, but is it too good to be true? The answer is usually yes, so don’t base your choice on the price alone. Look at other factors, including what the provider can offer you. The company should liaise with your insurance provider on your behalf to ensure they understand why the transportation is essential. Look at how the ambulance service will treat you or your loved one and feel confident in their service. A professional team will have experience, expertise and they’ll know how to treat their patients. Some flights could be hours, so make sure your provider has a great team to support you.
Consider Qualifications
It’s natural that you want to know the staff caring for you are qualified. However, don’t forget to check the legitimacy of the air ambulance provider. Do they hold the relevant certifications? All service providers must hold a license and an aviation grade, so make sure you ask for proof of these.
It’s also important to ensure the staff are professional and can offer you the best medical support. Look for critical care management and life support certifications, which must be held by the provider. Staff members should have completed the relevant training and all hold professional certifications.
Do You Want an Air Ambulance Provider or an Agent?
Air ambulance providers are usually unbiased companies that own or manage their own fleet of aircrafts. There are many benefits of using air ambulance providers, including:
â— Fixed prices
â— Well-documented safety and maintenance routines
â— They configure the jets to provide medical support
â— Staff members are well trained to accommodate the patient
Air ambulance agents rarely have their own aircrafts and usually act as a go-between for a patient and provider. They find the best aircrafts for patients and can offer some benefits but there are things to consider. An agent rarely knows the patient or won’t spend much time with them.
Choosing an air ambulance provider can be easy if you take these factors into consideration. In most cases, a person will never need an air ambulance, but you can have peace of mind that there are professional companies to care for you or your loved ones.
