Air Ambulances: What Are They and How Do I Choose One?

An air ambulance is an aircraft that can be used to reach a medical emergency situation where other more traditional land-bound ambulances are not able to. An air ambulance is also sometimes used when immediate transport to a hospital or medical facility is required. Accidents can happen anytime, anywhere. There are instances when the terrain is too unmanageable or too impractical to travel via roads. An air ambulance allows medical care to reach the people in need quickly and efficiently.

Of course, not all air ambulances are created equal. There are several things to look for when choosing an air ambulance service. For instance, consider the safety of the aircraft. All aircraft are required by the FAA to undergo minimum inspections. Look for an air ambulance service that goes the extra mile, with a reputation for keeping their aircrafts in perfect running condition.

Also, find out if the air ambulance is equipped to handle medical emergencies while in the air. Medical emergencies are unpredictable, so find an air ambulance service that is equipped to handle all possible situations. Opt for air ambulances that are equipped like ICUs at regular hospitals. This greatly reduces the risk of being ill-prepared for an emergency in the air, and should give you some peace of mind.

While the equipment on hand is important to the safety and care of a patient in transport, the flight staff and medical crew are just as vital. Choose an air ambulance service that gives its medical crew special training as in-flight medical specialists. Not all nurses are made to be flight paramedics. Having specialized training on flight physiology will make a world of difference to the abilities of the medical crew to care for a patient while in flight.

Another factor to consider is how fast an air ambulance service can be provided. Medical emergencies are just that: emergencies. The medical assistance required is immediate. It doesn’t matter how fast an air ambulance is if takes the entire day just to deploy it. Look for an air ambulance that makes a priority of immediate deployment. You should be looking for a service that deploys within two hours of receiving authorization.

Of course, price is always something to think about when choosing an air ambulance service. While you cannot put a price on ensuring the medical needs of the patient are met, an effort should still be made to find an air ambulance that gives you the best value for your money. Ask for a quotation and demand that the price you are quoted is the price you will be paying when all is said and done.

When using the right service, an air ambulance can prove to be invaluable in providing immediate medical care to a patient in need. Keep the factors mentioned above in mind when choosing an air ambulance service so that you may get the most out of it.