5 Important Things To Consider When Booking Long Distance Non-Emergency Medical Transportation
When booking long distance non-emergency medical transportation you don’t want to pay sky-high millage fees or ride in a van that may or may not make it to the next city. Many transportation services advertise long-distance transportation without informing you of the specifics, like additional fees or uncomfortable, stinky vans.
Anything over 150 miles qualifies as long distance transportation. Spending so much time in a vehicle requires careful consideration; otherwise your comfort and safety could be on the line. Here are 5 important things to consider and inquire about before booking long distance non-emergency medical transportation in Florida.
What type of vehicle will pick you up?
The type of vehicle you ride in across town is one thing, but if you’re going to be crossing multiple city limits you really want a nice and comfortable automobile to take you there. It’s not just cleanliness and comfort but overall safety and reliability counts too. Older vehicles that are not properly maintained are much more likely to break down and experience technical difficulties along the way. This is why it’s so important to inquire about the vehicles a company operates before booking a long distance trip.
The Stellar Answer:
We use 2013 or newer crash compliant vehicles that are maintained, detailed and inspected on a weekly basis for safety, sanitation, comfort and reliability.
Are there extra charges for long distance transportation?
Let’s face it, your happiness and safety is important but so too is cost. The last thing you want is to pay additional fees for long distance transportation, as these add up quick and sneak up on you. Ask right away about additional charges associated with long distance to make sure the final bill doesn’t surprise you.
The Stellar Answer:
We never charge extra for long distance. We simply require your point of interest is at least 150+ miles if we must travel out of Melbourne to pick you up. In other words, we can’t pick up someone that lives 50 miles away and drive them 5 miles, but we will drive any distance to pick up patients traveling 150+ miles without any extra charge.
Do vehicles accommodate special needs, such as a stretcher or wheelchair?
If you are not 100% mobile it’s incredibly important to find out what sort of wheelchair or stretcher equipment a transportation service has to offer. You want to be comfortable and safe, which is why the proper mechanisms and equipment for wheelchairs and stretchers must be present. Otherwise, a company is not equipped to safely transport wheelchair or stretcher patients.
The Stellar Answer:
Our drivers are fully trained to handle all wheelchair and stretcher patients. Plus, our vans are fully loaded for superior patient comfort regardless of mobility.
What sort of training do drivers undergo?
The driver behind the wheel is responsible for you or your loved one for at least a couple hours when long distance transportation is concerned. Therefore, it’s even more important than ever that drivers are qualified and trained to do a good job. Always ask a company what sort of training their long distance drivers have in order to identify the true professionals.
The Stellar Answer:
All of our drivers are trained in CPR, HIPAA, patient and elderly sensitivity, as well as defensive driving. Plus, all vehicles are equipped with cameras and tracking devices to ensure every mile of the trip is safe and drivers maintain the highest level of professionalism. Our drivers aren’t just there to get you from point A to point B; they are there to make the journey as enjoyable as possible.
How far is too far in regards to long distance transportation?
Some non-emergency medical transportation services put a cap on the number of miles they will transport long-distance patients. It’s important to ask ahead of time to ensure you aren’t booking a trip that reaches outside of a company’s jurisdiction. Some may offer to go outside of their typical zone but charge an additional fee that is not outlined in the basic information regarding long-distance transportation. Look up exactly how many miles you need to go in order to find out beforehand if it is feasible.
The Stellar Answer:
We go the distance no matter how far it may be, and we never charge extra. Even if you need a ride clear across the United States we are happy to take you!