Understanding When to Request an Air Ambulance for Your Patient

Air ambulances have literally revolutionized medical transport all over the world. But, the service has to be used wisely.

Back in the day when patients could be transported only on wheels, there was no question of pondering over the when, why and how. Things have changed now and for good – state run and private air ambulance transport services are here to pick a patient and ensure on-time treatment.  But, when exactly is it okay to call for an air ambulance?

Here are some important points to consider.

Fear Factor – Before you choose to opt for air travel medical assistance, the question needs to be asked of yourself whether it is completely out of the fear of the situation or fear of having to take care of the patient that you are making the call.

Access Points (in case of emergency) – You need to make sure you call from a location where a helicopter can easily land and subsequently take-off. If that is not the case to begin with, you may be wasting your time making the phone calls.

Time – Is time of critical importance for your patient? If that is the case, there are other methods of medical transportation that might be beneficial. An air ambulance, though quick when in the air, usually takes significant time in the landings and taking off. It is not all that quick as you may imagine.

Extraction – Air ambulance transport is ideal for high emergency scenarios or evacuations. If the patient is severely sick and also stuck, air ambulances are just the thing. In other scenarios where a lot more medical equipment and crew is required or the patient can manage travel along the roads, regular ambulances run by non-emergency medical transport companies should do just fine.