As we age, hopping into the car and driving to places is no longer an advantage – at least for many of us. Over time, stepping out of the house might need a different approach. Thankfully, modern transportation is making it easier again, especially with Non-Emergency Medical Transport (NEMT) services, which significantly benefit patients.
NEMT is short for non-emergency medical transportation, a service designed for people needing help to reach their scheduled medical appointments. It’s part of Medicare and covers essential healthcare needs that aren’t urgent. This kind of medical transportation is not for emergencies. It is a straightforward service that helps individuals when medical attention is necessary but not urgent.
These services pick people up from their homes or other places and transport them to medical centers. But remember, they’re not ambulances. If it’s an emergency, it’s best to call 9-1-1 for an ambulance.
What is Non-emergency Medical Transportation?
It’s a medical transport service for non-urgent medical needs. Imagine having a doctor’s appointment for an annual check-up but no way to get there. You might not have your vehicle, face difficulty driving, or your family members may be unable to help you.
It could even be a day when driving feels overwhelming. These scenarios are when hiring a NEMT provider becomes beneficial.
To book an NEMT, the person contacts a service provider and tells them his need for transport. If they are booking through an app or third party, the third party connects the individual with the service provider.
However, when you book transport with Infina Health, you do not have to deal with any third party or app, you book a ride with us directly that picks you up and drops you off at your designated location.
Should You Rely on Non-Emergency Medical Transportation?
Yes, you should definitely rely on an NEMT for your non-emergency transport needs. Here are some reasons that make non-emergency medical transportation a must and reliable transport;
NEMT is Cheaper than Ambulances
Choosing non-emergency medical transport means you won’t spend as much on emergency services. Non-emergency transportation is usually more affordable because health professionals work with schedules, and there’s no rush for the driver to provide services.
Emergency medical transport costs more, especially when specialized equipment is involved. Non-emergency medical transport is usually about ten times cheaper than emergency options. Ambulances, known for their high costs, make non-emergency medical transportation a more affordable alternative.
NEMT Carries Vital Medical Equipment
Non-emergency medical transport prioritizes patient comfort by carrying essential equipment onboard. This includes crucial items like fluids, medical supplies, and specialized bags. These items help healthcare professionals manage a patient’s condition until they reach their destination.
The vehicles used for non-emergency transport are adapted to ensure safe transportation and tailored to address various specific medical needs of patients during the journey.
NEMT also has Wheelchairs
Wheelchair transportation services are a non-medical option often chosen by individuals with disabilities. Many feel hesitant to attend social events, hospital visits, or parties because getting in and out of regular cabs is challenging. For them, non-emergency wheelchair services are available, specially designed to cater to their needs.
These services ensure a smoother and more comfortable way to travel, making it easier for individuals using wheelchairs to participate in various activities and outings. Wheelchair transport services is a form of NEMT that helps people with mobility issues. Booking an NEMT also means that the transport will come equipped with wheelchairs.
NEMT Makes Post-Surgery Check-Ups Easy
Following surgery, it’s often necessary to visit the doctor for post-surgery check-ups. However, using a regular vehicle for these check-ups can be painful at times. Fortunately, non-emergency medical transportation services have made this process much simpler and more comfortable.
These services specifically cater to individuals who need to visit the doctor after surgery. They offer a convenient and pain-free way to travel, ensuring a smoother experience compared to using regular vehicles.
This specialized transportation understands the need for gentle and comfortable travel, especially for those recovering from surgery. It provides a supportive and stress-free journey for individuals on their way to these crucial post-surgery appointments, easing their discomfort and making the process less burdensome.
NEMT Offers Accessibility and Convenience
Many individuals need regular medical facility visits due to their health conditions. For them, having accessible transportation at any time, day or night, is crucial. People with mobility challenges especially rely on non-emergency medical transport to move around.
In non-emergency medical transport, the cars used are well-kept and updated for convenience. They’re designed with special spaces to store mobility aids like crutches and wheelchairs, making it easier for clients to move around.
These vehicles are modified to meet patients’ needs, ensuring they can comfortably make their appointments on time. This specialized transport service prioritizes making travel comfortable and accommodating for individuals with diverse mobility requirements.
NEMT Enhances Customer Safety
In non-emergency medical transportation, patient safety comes first. Everything in these vehicles is modern and regularly updated. Plus, many of the people offering these services have worked in healthcare before, so they know how to take care of patients during travel.
They’re well-trained and certified, ensuring professionalism and safety throughout the journey. This specialized training helps them handle patients safely and professionally while providing transportation services.
NEMT Fosters Independence
Having a reliable non-emergency medical transport service offers independence in arranging travel. It’s better to rely on these services rather than solely on friends or family, who might sometimes be unreliable.
For instance, a simple call to a non-emergency medical transport service can provide the help needed for travel, showcasing independence. Often, depending on friends or family for appointments can lead to disappointment if they can’t respond on time.
Many elderly or disabled individuals usually rely on others for doctor appointments. With non-emergency medical transportation, they don’t have to wait for others as everything they need is available in the transport vehicle, ensuring they can travel independently and comfortably.
NEMT Provides Comfort and Peace of Mind
For people with health concerns, using public transport can be stressful. Not all public options have the necessary tools for those with disabilities, which can make them feel uncomfortable. However, non-emergency medical transportation solves this anxiety.
Choosing services like Infina Health for transport can bring more peace during travel, especially for individuals with impairments or health issues. It’s a reliable option for reaching medical appointments anywhere, ensuring comfort and peace of mind throughout the journey.
Non-emergency medical transportation is vital for those who don’t need urgent medical care. It helps patients reach hospitals or move between locations swiftly and safely. Unlike emergency medical transport, non-emergency options include planes, regular cars, buses, and ambulances equipped with tools to meet patients’ needs during transportation.