Elderly people, as well as persons with mobility issues, find it difficult to travel safely. In the case of emergency transportation like in hospitals, one can easily get hold of an ambulance service, but the problem arises when it comes to non-emergency transport purposes. Public transport is out of the question, and private cars may not be the safest option. Non-emergency medical transportation acts as a savior in such scenarios.
Unwell or handicapped people must try to live as normally as possible. They must have a social circle, go on trips provided they are safe, and not face problems when visiting a doctor for a regular checkup.
If you are still unsure about the patient transport services and have several questions dwelling in your mind, worry not. We have compiled the most frequently asked questions about patient transport services and answered them. We are sure all your doubts and queries will be answered in the next segment.
FAQs About NEMT
Q1. Can I use long-distance medical transportation for a regular health checkup?
Ans. Yes, you can use long-distance medical transportation for a routine doctor’s appointment. The best services ensure that your loved ones are safely picked up from the doorstep and returned to their home with utmost care.
Q2. What happens to my patient if an emergency arises while in transport?
Ans. Most patient transport services have first aid certified drivers trained in CPR. They are trained to take initial care of your patient until they reach the health facility. In some cases, these vehicles come with nurses and staff responsible for taking care of the patient’s comfort and health. They are extremely sensitive and caring.
Q3. How are NEMT vehicles safer than private cars?
Ans. Non Emergency medical transportation services aim to provide the safest transportation system. The vehicles they use are equipped with stretchers, wheelchairs, safety belts, etc. They also make sure that the vehicle is sanitized before and after use to eliminate any danger to the patient’s health.
Q4. Do drivers drive safely?
Ans. The safety and comfort of the patient depend largely on the driver and his driving skills. That is why these patient transportation services make sure that they hire the best drivers. Moreover, drivers are drug and alcohol tested to operate a clean business. The screening process is pretty elaborate, and only the best ones are selected after a thorough background check up. Any history with drugs or accidents is rejected immediately.
Q5. Are drivers monitored on the road?
Ans. Drivers are constantly monitored on the road to ensure that they are traveling on the right and safe path. It also helps keep track of the driver’s activity and alarm in case of any suspicious or reckless move.
Q6. Can I use the service for purposes other than visiting the doctor?
Ans. Non Emergency medical transportation services can be used for any purpose that requires your patient to step out of the house; it need not necessarily be for medical purposes only. You can avail of the services for trips, tours, parties, etc. All of us need some respite from the mundane life, but traveling with a patient in a private car can be unsafe, and this is where NEMT services come into play.
Q7. Is it possible to get long-distance non-emergency medical transportation services?
Ans. If you are planning a trip outside the city with your close ones, it is possible to get NEMT services. Drivers and caretakers ensure that your patient is safe and feels comfortable throughout the journey. Often people with mobility issues miss out on quality family outings and trips, but this could be their way of enjoying a regular life.
Q8. Is stretcher transportation available?
Ans. For patients who have just undergone surgery or are bedridden, door to door medical transportation services have the facility of stretchers. Such delicate patients are accompanied by specialized caretakers trained in transferring patients from stretcher to the bed and vice versa without causing them any harm or injury.
Q9. Which patients can benefit the most from NEMT services?
Ans. Patients who have to visit the health facility quite often but have mobility issues can use NEMT services. Dialysis patients or patients undergoing physiotherapy at a hospital can use this safe mode of transportation to avoid any risk of injury or discomfort while traveling to and fro. Patients who need to visit a doctor but do not have a reliable transportation option can largely benefit from such a service.
Q10. Is it safe to use NEMT services during the COVID?
Ans. NEMT services are safe for patients even during the pandemic. The drivers and caretakers are vaccinated and tested for temperature every day. Moreover, they follow strict COVID protocol to ensure the patient’s safety.
With all the crucial questions answered, we hope all your doubts stand clear and now you know all about NEMT services.