Name of the Procedure:

Common name(s): Non-emergency Transportation and Air Travel Technical/Medical term: Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), Air Travel (private or commercial), Intra or Inter State (HCPCS Code: A0140)

Summary

Non-emergency transportation and air travel services provide scheduled transport for patients who require medical attention but are not in an emergency situation. This can include air travel via private or commercial flights within or between states.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions/Problems Addressed: Assists patients who need to travel to receive medical care, but do not require emergency medical transportation.
• Goals/Expected Outcomes: To ensure patients reach medical facilities safely and comfortably for appointments or treatments that are not immediate emergencies.

Indications

• Symptoms/Conditions: Chronic illnesses, ongoing treatments like chemotherapy or dialysis, post-surgical follow-ups, and specialist consultations that require travel.
• Patient Criteria: Individuals who cannot travel via regular means due to medical constraints or who require assistance during travel.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: Patients should arrange travel in advance, bring any necessary medical records, medications, and personal identification.
• Diagnostic Tests/Assessments: Depending on the patient's condition, the healthcare provider may require updated health assessments to ensure fitness for travel.

Procedure Description

1. Scheduling: Arrange the transportation with a provider specializing in medical transport.
2. Pre-Travel Coordination: Medical staff communicate with transport teams regarding patient needs.
3. Day of Travel:
   • Pick up from home or healthcare facility.
   • Assistance with boarding and seating.
   • Provision of medical supervision if required.
4. During Travel:
   • Continuous monitoring of the patient's condition.
   • Administration of medications or oxygen, if necessary.
5. Arrival: Assistance with disembarking and transfer to destination healthcare facility.

Tools/Equipment:

• Wheelchairs, stretchers, medical kits, portable oxygen tanks.

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• None typically required unless prescribed for the patient's comfort during travel.

Duration

• Varies depending on the travel distance. Local intra-state travel could take 1-4 hours, while inter-state travel could take several hours to a day.

Setting

• Performed in a non-emergency medical transportation vehicle, private aircraft, or commercial airline.

Personnel

• Licensed medical transport providers, nurses, and sometimes paramedics.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Mild discomfort, travel fatigue, potential missed connections.
• Rare Risks: Worsening of medical condition, travel delays resulting in treatment delays, and travel-related infections.
• Management: Immediate access to medical support during travel and protocols for managing emergencies en route.

Benefits

• Access to specialized and necessary medical care.
• Reduced stress and physical strain on the patient during travel.
• Timely arrival for medical appointments.
• Benefits are generally realized immediately upon accessing care safely.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: No specific post-transport care needed besides rest and rehydration.
• Recovery Time: Minimal if travel is smooth and without delays.
• Restrictions/Follow-up: Follow-up with primary care or specialist as planned.

Alternatives

• Treatment Options:
  • Virtual consultations (telemedicine).
  • Local healthcare facilities for non-specialist care.
  • Standard transportation modes with companion assistance.
• Pros/Cons:
  • Pros of Non-emergency transportation: Specialized care during travel, safer for high-risk patients.
  • Cons: Higher costs compared to standard transportation, requires advance booking.

Patient Experience

Patients might feel anxious about travel but can be reassured by constant medical supervision. Some discomfort from long journeys might be relieved by appropriate seating and medical aids. Pain management and comfort measures such as cushioned seating, hydration, and snacks are typically provided to ensure a smooth travel experience.