The care giver or guardian as someone responsible for the well-being of a loved one in need of long distance medical transportation may find it necessary to investigate the options available. Many choices of non-emergency medical transport providers make it a challenge to determine which is best for the patient numerous considerations have to be made in cases where a loved one is bedridden. If they are otherwise unable to travel without some degree of medical supervision, research must be done when choosing providers of hospital patient transport.
It can be a challenge assisting the elderly with transportation.
Long distance medical transport is used for a variety of needs. Providing a medical patient with transportation to another facility may be necessary from time to time.
Maybe the patient requires the transportation in order to visit relatives and friends. A long distance specialty transport is a comfortable manner (as well as a popular choice) provided by some carriers.
There are no hard and fast rules concerning the choice of any patient transportation service.
A choice can be made based on the patient’s individual needs and their budget considerations.
For anyone who is researching providers for his or her loved one, a number of considerations must be made.
The first consideration should be that of the total distance that the patient is to travel.
While ground transportation is less expensive, air transportation is much faster.
While being as cost-effective as possible ground travel would be your best choice.
The patient’s doctor should always be consulted when considering long distance medical transportation. Doctors can best help in situations where decisions such as these must be made for the patient’s welfare.
When the need for non-emergency transport arises, the mode of carriage (the method by which the patient is carried) should be considered first.
For medical patient transport, this is critical, as some companies cater to certain types of medical transport. Other companies may provide only handicapped transportation for those who are not in medical need. Depending on the overall condition of the patient, modes of transport are broken down into three basic tiers:
Ambulatory
Ambulatory patients are able to walk on board the chosen mode of transportation—with or without some assistance—and be seated for the duration of the travel. This is suitable for the elderly with transportation between care facilities. For patients who are able to tolerate several hours of travel and need only a little assistance during the trip. Ambulatory patients are good candidates for medical patient transportation by air, and in up to three hour drive by ground.
Wheelchair
Wheelchairs should be used for patients who are unable to comfortably walk to their transport or sit in standard seating. They are able to sit upright for the duration of the journey. Wheelchairs are also appropriate for assisting the physically disabled with transportation. Most hospital patients in transport are able to tolerate sitting in a wheelchair for up to three hours.
However, if the patient has pressure (bed) sores or orthopedic issues that make sitting for long period’s difficult, then patient transportation via gurney may be necessary, especially if the trip is expected to exceed three hours.
Gurney
A gurney is most suitable for patients who are not ambulatory, they are bedridden and cannot tolerate a wheelchair. This method is best if medical transport is predicted to extend beyond three hours. A gurney can be adjusted to allow the patient to sit in an upright position or recline, as is most comfortable for him or her. Some more reputable services offer an extra padding called egg crate padding that they often give to patient to keep afterwards.
Once the mode of carriage is determined, determining the mode of patient transportation is next. While some patients may be able to tolerate a longer travel time by ground, the distance traveled may be more than the patient can comfortably endure. Some patients may experience undue anxiety and stress caused by air travel, even if travel by ground might prove grueling.
Once a decision is reached on the type of non-emergency medical transportation that is appropriate for the patient, researching providers is the next step. The search for a medical transportation carrier should include some time to properly research the companies to make sure they will suit the requirements of the patient’s comfort and care. These will include feeding, administration of medications, and elimination.
Booking the transportation may also involve notification of the facility where the patient will be arriving, to ensure that the patient’s arrival is expected. It is suggested that an onboard phone and computer service is found on the transport you choose. This can also be used to monitor weather or locate the closest medical facility if needed.
Preparing the Patient for Transport
preparing for the patients trip after the patient transport is booked, can be a challenge. A reputable transport company is likely to have provided you with a list of things to have ready for transport. The patient’s medication, clothing, adaptive equipment and appropriate food and drink will be necessary to prepare well in advance of the arrival.
Other Considerations
Comfort is among the highest concern with delicate medical patients in transport or those who are handicapped when transportation via other modes is uncomfortable.
The level of care a patient needs during the trip is as important as the comfort of the patient. Many providers of non-emergency medical transportation specialize in a high-level of care.
Careful considerations required if a patient with a transport need requires administration of medicine. It must be made clear to the EMT to ensure the patient’s care is maintained.
Price is often determined by the level of care needed. Although being price conscious is suggested, making sure you have picked the best care should be your priority.
Understanding the patient’s needs while investigating options is the best course for providing the most appropriate level of care for a loved one. If you are planning long distance travel as a guardian or even as a loved one, Use this article to help you make the best decision.