Having to develop medical travel strategiesis a reality for many people across the country. Whether it’s moving a patient from one medical facility to another, helping someone return home after an injury while traveling, or assisting a senior in relocating, non-emergency medical travel presents unique challenges.
One major concern is cost. However, with careful planning and the right strategies, families and healthcare providers can reduce the cost of medical travel while ensuring patient safety and comfort.
The following looks at some effective medical travel strategies for minimizing costs during non-emergency medical travel.
Plan Ahead for Medical Travel
One of the most important medical travel strategies to reduce costs is to plan ahead. Whenever possible, start planning the travel as soon as you know the patient will need to move. Early planning allows for more options and the ability to compare pricing. You can take advantage of discounted rates for flights, transportation, and accommodations.
If the patient does not need immediate medical attention, consider the best time of day or week to travel. Some airlines or transportation services offer cheaper rates during off-peak hours, making it easier to save on travel expenses. Doing the work to book travel accommodations in advance is one of the key advantages provided by non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) companies.
Choose the Right Medical Travel Service
Not all medical travel services are the same, and their prices can differ significantly. It is important to do your research and choose a service that offers the appropriate level of care the patient needs at a reasonable cost. Some companies specialize in non-emergency medical travel and can offer services tailored to specific medical conditions or requirements.
Ask about costs upfront. By understanding the total cost from the start, you can make better financial decisions and avoid unexpected expenses. Flying Angels is transparent about pricing and will provide estimates upfront, ensuring clients are aware of all the costs associated with medical travel.
Using Commercial Flights Instead of Private Air Ambulances
Flying Angels focuses on supporting patients who fly on commercial flights, an approach that saves patients the cost of using air ambulances, which are costly for non-emergency travel. For patients who are stable but still require medical attention, flying on a commercial airline with an RN med flight nurse is a more affordable option.
This service enables patients to travel safely at a fraction of the cost of a private air ambulance. A flight nurse or medical escort can assist with medications, monitor vital signs, and manage any medical issues that may arise during the flight. This approach guarantees that patients receive the care they need without the steep expense associated with an air ambulance.
Coordination with Healthcare Providers, Insurers
Consult with a physician before booking NEMT services to better understand the specific transportation needs of the patient. This is important whether your loved one is relocating to an assisted living facility, moving closer to family, or visiting a medical specialist. NEMT companies can customize their service when provided with more details, including any special instructions for a specific patient.
In some cases, health insurance may cover part or all of the costs of non-emergency medical travel, especially if the travel is deemed necessary for the patient’s ongoing care. It’s important to check with the patient’s insurance provider to see what is covered.
You may need a referral or approval from a doctor, so it’s best to start the conversation with the insurance company early. Understanding what is covered can help you make informed decisions about the type of transportation and level of care required, potentially saving thousands of dollars.
Pack Light to Save on Costs
When planning medical travel, keep personal belongings to a minimum. Only pack essential items to avoid extra charges for baggage. These can include medications, medical records, personal hygiene products, and any necessary assistive devices. If you travel with a flight nurse, they will manage medications and medical devices for you, ensuring they are easily accessible during the journey.
If specialized medical equipment is needed, such as a portable oxygen tank, a NEMT company should work with you and the airlines ahead of time to ensure compliance with all regulations.
Non-emergency medical travel does not have to break the bank. With careful planning and smart choices, families and healthcare providers can reduce the cost of patient transfers while still ensuring the patient’s safety and comfort. Using commercial flights with RN medical escorts, choosing ground transportation when possible, and planning in advance are just a few strategies to help manage expenses.
By choosing the right services and understanding the available options, you can ensure that non-emergency medical travel remains both safe and affordable. The key is to start early, explore all your options, and make decisions that prioritize the patient’s needs alongside your budget.
Contact a Flying Angels Flight Coordinator here to discuss your medical travel needs.