Patients use both ambulance and non-emergency medical stretcher transport services, and knowing the difference between the two can help you plan better. Both these serve the same patients but have different purposes. If you find it challenging to get ambulance services in case of doctor’s appointments and other such issues, knowing about wheelchair transport services can be of great help.
In this case, we are going to delve deeply into both services and how they differ. This will give you a clear idea about what to opt for in different situations.
Stretcher Transport Services
Stretcher transport services mostly meet non-emergency medical needs. Non-emergency medical transportation can take care of any requirement that is not a critical emergency.
These services serve patients who have mobility issues and cannot sit up straight or travel by regular means of transport. If your patient requires assistance while moving from one spot to another or is supported by a wheelchair or stretcher, it is best not to opt for private or public transportation.
Key Features
Medical Purpose
It is meant for people who have mobility issues but don’t have a critical emergency. You can use this kind of service for doctor’s appointments and daycare treatments like dialysis or discharge.
Recreational
Besides medical use, you can hire this service for short trips and family functions as well.
Caregivers
Caregivers for disabled seniors support each patient. These caregivers are well-trained in managing patients with mobility issues and keeping them company. They are also given training regarding emergencies, so when your loved ones are with such caregivers, you need not worry a bit.
Equipped vehicles
The stretcher transport service vans are not your regular cars, but they have a well-built system of safety features, such as belts, crutches, etc., for additional security. The seats are comfortable and padded so that patients can travel comfortably without much jerk while in transit.
The caregivers and drivers are well aware of stretcher transport techniques, making it absolutely safe for patients. The vehicle also has CPR, an oxygen supply, monitors, and first aid kits to attend to any emergency that may arise while traveling.
Supervision
The company supervises these vehicles, and even families can track their movements. The drivers are trained to drive smoothly, minimizing any discomfort throughout transit. The best NEMT service companies run a thorough background check on each of their employees, ensuring the patient is safe during travel.
Booking by Appointment
You can book such a service beforehand by making an appointment. All you need to do is put down patient details and when you need the service.
Ambulance Services
Ambulances are meant to search for medical emergencies in which the patient needs to be transferred to the hospital as soon as possible. They have highly trained staff who handle emergencies on a daily basis. EMTs and paramedics provide critical care to patients on the way to the hospital, thereby not wasting any time and beginning treatment right from the moment
the patient is in the vehicle.
Key Features
Purpose
The sole purpose of ambulances is to help patients reach the hospital as quickly as possible. Thus, they are mostly used for emergencies. While you may find an ambulance for non-emergency medical needs, the chances are slim. Ambulances prioritize critical emergencies and will probably need such a situation over non-emergency medical needs like discharge or daycare.
Medical Staff
Since ambulances are meant for critical patients, they come with medical staff who have proper training in several fields related to medical science. They are equipped to handle several medical emergencies like trauma injuries, cardiac arrests, burns, etc. They can perform preliminary procedures and administer medications to stabilize the patient before reaching the hospital.
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Advanced Medical Equipment
Ambulances have an ecosystem of medical equipment, such as ventilators, medication, defibrillators, etc. that allows professionals to administer the patient and act accordingly.
Quick Response
Ambulances generally provide emergency assistance and are equipped with lights and sirens, making it easier for them to navigate traffic. This ensures patients who need critical medical attention will not be delayed.
Final Words
Now that you know how ambulance and stretcher transport services are different from each other, you can make a better choice when choosing such a service for patients.