After last week’s robust discussion about assisting clients with transportation, NASMM is pleased to welcome our new Industry Partner, Flying Angels! Flying Angels provides non-emergency medical transport anywhere in the US, or the world, on commercial airlines such as Delta, America, Lufthansa, etc. Patients fly in First or Business class with a Flight Nurse or physician accompanying them. Flying Angels assists seniors with minimal needs, to patients with mobility impairment, oxygen dependency, cognitive impairment, or more serious medical conditions. Flying Angels handles all of the details, bedside to bedside.
Flying Angels provide non-emergency medical transport anywhere in the world on commercial aircraft with a Flight Nurse. Bedside to bedside flight nurse care, contact a RN Flight Coordinator today.
Non-Emergency Medical Transport (NEMT) has become a critical issue for many in the United States. Those who live on low incomes often cannot afford a car of their own, much less the cost of air travel.
Sadly, that’s led to an estimated 3.6 million Americans who either delay or completely skip needed medical treatment because they simply cannot travel to receive it.
Non-Emergency Medical Transport Benefits
NEMT has made it possible for people to get that needed treatment. Provided by private companies, the cost of NEMT is far less than that of using an air ambulance to travel to distant places.
There are, however, issues to keep in mind when choosing a NEMT service. Consider some of the following factors when making a choice.
Experienced Flight Nurse
It’s important that the person traveling with the patient has extensive education and experience. Flying Angels, for example, only employs registered nurses to travel with patients. Check to ensure that the team working with you has all the experience necessary to handle medical situations that could arise, including education in flight physiology.
The bottom line is it’s important to have a trained medical professional on-hand, even though it’s a non-emergency situation.
Some NEMT companies offer ground services or air services. Some only provide transport locally, while others provide services across the country and even for international trips. It’s important to choose the Non-Emergency Medical Transport service that meets your transportation requirements.
Some companies, such as Flying Angels, coordinate every aspect of the trip. That includes ground service, air service and booking the travel arrangements. This means working with airlines, family members and medical professionals to coordinate travel plans. That’s the type of service needed if your travel involves complex arrangements.
NEMT companies have become more numerous in recent years. Some media stories have even provided quick start-up guides for those who wish to simply get a license and drive people to medical appointments. That’s all well and good because such services truly are needed in every community.
However, choosing to use a Non-Emergency Medical Transport service is a big decision for most families. For those whose trips include flying, it’s best to search for companies with years of experience. Also, research the team at a company to ensure they have both medical credentials and years of training in the field.
One of the primary advantages of using a NEMT is the cost-savings in comparison to using transportation such as an air ambulance. Look for services that provide upfront estimates on what transportation costs could be to various location, such as Philadelphia-based Flying Angels does.
NEMT companies provide an important, valuable service. Keep these issues in mind when choosing one for medical transportation. It will provide the peace of mind need during what can be stressful and challenging time.
Traveling safely and comfortably is a significant concern for patients with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS). The syndrome, which often leads to muscle weakness and varying degrees of paralysis, presents unique challenges that can make using traditional plans to travel with GBS difficult. Ensuring proper accommodations and support throughout the journey is crucial to maintaining safety and well-being.
Because of the syndrome’s impact on mobility and the need for close monitoring, non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services offer specialized solutions designed to meet these challenges. Unlike conventional transportation options, which may not provide necessary adaptations or professional assistance, NEMT services deliver tailored support to ensure a smooth travel experience, including for those with GBS who plan to travel on a commercial airline.
Understanding Guillain-Barré Syndrome and Its Impact on Mobility
Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a rare neurological disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the nerves. Symptoms range from mild muscle weakness to complete paralysis, and in severe cases, patients require mechanical ventilation to breathe. While some individuals recover fully, the process can be lengthy. Mobility issues often persist during recovery.
The unpredictable nature of GBS symptoms can make traveling particularly difficult. Muscle weakness may affect a patient’s ability to walk or even sit upright for extended periods. Also, the need for medical equipment or continuous monitoring by healthcare professionals is often necessary, which means extra planning and specialized support.
The Role of Non-Emergency Medical Transport (NEMT)
Medical transport services fill a crucial role for patients with GBS who cannot travel alone on commercial planes. Flight nurses travel with patients, ensuring they get the care and attention they need to make the trip go smoothly.
At Flying Angels, services include the booking of accommodations by an RN flight coordinator. In addition, they coordinate with the patient’s healthcare team and work with airline and airport officials, ensuring the client has all the specialized services they need, such as assistance going through security, in place before they even arrive at the airport.
One of the key advantages of using NEMT for travel with GBS is the availability of trained medical personnel who accompany the patient throughout the journey. These professional flight nurses have critical care experience as well as training in how to provide healthcare at high altitudes. They have the expertise to monitor the patient’s condition, administer care if needed and manage, any unforeseen medical emergencies.
This level of support gives families peace of mind and reduces the stress associated with long-distance travel.
Proper planning is essential to travel with GBS. This includes a thorough assessment of the patient’s current condition, understanding the progression of their symptoms, and discussing any medical equipment that may be required. For instance, patients who experience respiratory issues may need portable oxygen tanks, while others might require supportive seating to remain comfortable over long distances.
Families should work closely with healthcare providers to develop a travel plan that addresses all medical and comfort needs. Medical clearance may be necessary, and it is vital to communicate with the transport service to ensure that every aspect of the journey is carefully coordinated.
This preparation helps minimize risks and ensures that the patient receives appropriate care from start to finish.
The Benefits of Choosing NEMT Services
Choosing NEMT services for patients with Guillain-Barré Syndrome offers numerous benefits. Partnering with a high-quality NEMT company ensures that patients have access to flight nurses who are experienced and trained to give patients the care and attention they need.
NEMT services also provide flexibility in scheduling, which can be crucial for patients with fluctuating health conditions. The availability of round-the-clock transportation options means that patients can travel at times that best suit their medical needs. This flexibility, combined with the professional oversight offered by medical staff, makes NEMT a valuable resource for families facing travel challenges.
Travel with GBS requires careful planning and specialized support. NEMT services provide a cost-effective solution that prioritizes patient safety and comfort. By understanding the unique needs of GBS patients and working closely with transport providers, families ensure a safe and well-managed travel experience, making journeys as stress-free as possible.
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.
