Before booking long distance non-emergency medical transportation you should know the type vehicle you’ll be riding in, total costs, any assistance provided along the way, the specifications of your appointment and so much more.
Here Are Some Tips For Booking Long Distance Medical Transportation
Know What Vehicle You’re Traveling In
A long distance trip requires remaining in the same vehicle for an extended period of time. You want to be comfortable, have adequate legroom and feel safe that the vehicle isn’t going to break down or fall apart. That’s why it’s so important to see the vehicle you or your loved one will be transported in prior to the day you are scheduled to leave.
Vehicle make, model and overall safety is very important. Make sure to question how often vehicles are serviced, cleaned and checked over.
To learn more about our vehicles click here: Our Vehicles
Double Check Your Appointment
No one wants to travel hundreds of miles only to arrive at their destination and realize they had the wrong date or time. Double-check all appointments and call ahead to guarantee you have it right. This can save you money, time, hassles and a lot of unnecessary stress.
Check Reviews & Speak With People You Know
Before booking with a certain transportation service make sure to look up reviews and speak with anyone you know that may have used their services before. This helps give you peace of mind and prevent a potentially negative situation from unfolding.
Make Sure Transporter Provides Wheelchair & Stretcher Transportation
If you require wheelchair or stretcher transportation make sure to ask up if they provide these services. Ask detailed questions about the transportation process and the equipment used to ensure you’re picking a service with adequate training, experience and the proper vehicles to get the job done right.
Make A Packing List & Check It Twice
Start making a checklist a week or so before you leave. As you go about your day take note of anything you use or rely on that needs to be added to the list. Then, as you pack your things you can mark them off on the list. There are some things you can simply buy along the way if you forget, but other things like medications are more important to remember.
Know All Costs Up Front & Ahead Of Time
Make sure to factor in all costs associated with the trip ahead of time. Knowing all costs prevents any surprises from catching you off guard. Are there any additional costs for staying at a hotel or other accommodations along the way? What about food and drinks as you travel? The extent of your long distance journey will play a huge role in overall costs, but so too will the company you book with. It’s highly recommended that you secure quotes from multiple services in order to pinpoint the best deal with the highest level of experience and service.
What Type Of On-Board Care Is Provided?
Will someone be sitting in the back with you or your loved one, or is there just a driver up front? If you need extra support and care, which many patients do, it’s important that someone is available in the back at all times.
Be Accessible
Don’t forget to bring your phone and charger so that loved ones can stay in contact with you. The last thing you want is to be hundreds of miles away from home without any way to contact your family and friends. Having your cell phone along with you also gives you access to phone numbers you might otherwise not remember or have on you.
After meeting with your doctor you should check in back home and let everyone know what’s going on while the bulk of information is still fresh in your mind. You could also use your cell phone to record everything your doctor says for future reference.
Bring Along Something To Do
How do you plan to stay entertained along the way? Bring a good book, magazine, word puzzle or tablet to remain entertained throughout the journey.
Stellar Transportation is proud to provide leading non-emergency medical transportation for local and long distance. We always rely on the highest safety standards to get you where you need to go in comfort.