Als Mileage (Per Mile) (A0390)

Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name: Advanced Life Support (ALS) Mileage
• Technical/Medical Term: HCPCS Code A0390

Summary

ALS Mileage (per mile) refers to the per-mile transportation charge for an ambulance service equipped to provide advanced life support care during the transport of a patient.

Purpose

The primary purpose of ALS Mileage is to cover the costs associated with transporting patients who require advanced medical care during their journey. This service ensures that individuals with severe or life-threatening conditions receive continuous medical support while being transferred to a medical facility.

Indications

• Emergency situations requiring advanced life support
• Severe trauma or injuries
• Cardiovascular emergencies (e.g., heart attacks)
• Respiratory emergencies (e.g., severe asthma attacks)
• Critical care transfers

Preparation

• Before transport: Ensure to bring any relevant medical records, medications, and identification.
• During transport: Communicate any known allergies or existing medical conditions to the ambulance team.

Procedure Description

1. Dispatch of an ALS-equipped ambulance to the patient's location.
2. On arrival, the paramedics assess the patient's condition and provide necessary on-site advanced medical care.
3. The patient is securely placed in the ambulance, and advanced life support equipment is set up.
4. Continuous monitoring and medical care are provided throughout the transport.
5. Safe delivery of the patient to a designated medical facility.

Equipment Used:

• Advanced life support equipment (e.g., defibrillators, ventilators)
• Medical supplies (e.g., medications, IV fluids)

Anesthesia or Sedation:

• Not typically required, but pain management and sedation may be administered as needed.

Duration

The duration varies widely depending on the distance to the medical facility and the patient's condition.

Setting

• Typically performed in an ambulance designed for advanced life support capabilities.

Personnel

• Paramedics or Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) trained in advanced life support.

Risks and Complications

• Transport-related risks, such as complications from movement
• Potential for needing immediate medical interventions during transport
• Rare risk of equipment malfunction

Benefits

• Continuous advanced medical care en route to a medical facility
• Rapid response and transfer to appropriate medical care improving outcomes

Recovery

• Continuous care is provided at the destination medical facility.
• Post-transport evaluation and further medical treatment as necessary.

Alternatives

• Basic Life Support (BLS) transport for less severe conditions
• Air ambulance services for long-distance or remote area transfers

Pros:

• ALS provides more advanced emergency care during transport.

Cons:

• Typically more costly than BLS transport.

Patient Experience

• Patients may experience some discomfort due to movement during transport.
• Pain management and other comfort measures are taken to ensure patient safety and comfort.
• Constant communication with medical personnel for reassurance and monitoring.