Name of the Procedure:

Fixed Wing Air Mileage, Per Statute Mile (HCPCS Code: A0435)

Common name(s): Fixed-wing air ambulance transport
Technical term: Fixed Wing Air Mileage

Summary

Fixed-wing air mileage refers to the distance-based billing for transport in a fixed-wing air ambulance. An air ambulance is a specially outfitted aircraft used for transporting patients who require urgent medical care over long distances.

Purpose

This procedure is utilized to efficiently transport patients who need immediate and/or specialized medical care that is not available at their current location.

Indications

• Critical medical emergencies requiring rapid transportation.
• Patients needing specialized treatment available only at distant facilities.
• Medical conditions that necessitate urgent and smooth transfer to prevent deterioration.

Preparation

• Ensure all relevant medical records are ready for the receiving facility.
• Stabilize the patient for transportation.
• Specific pre-flight medical assessments and stabilization.

Procedure Description

1. Patient assessment and stabilization by the medical team.
2. Transportation from the medical facility to the airfield.
3. Loading the patient onto the fixed-wing aircraft with specialized medical equipment.
4. Medical monitoring and care during flight by trained medical personnel.
5. Safe transfer from the aircraft to the receiving medical facility.

Equipment used: Medical stretcher, monitoring devices, ventilator, medications, and emergency medical kits.
Anesthesia/Sedation: Typically not applicable unless required for patient stabilization.

Duration

The duration is variable based on the distance to be covered and the specifics of the medical situation.

Setting

Performed in the air within a fixed-wing aircraft designed for medical emergencies. Initial and final transfers occur at medical facilities.

Personnel

• Trained flight nurses/medics
• Paramedics
• Pilots experienced in medical transport

Risks and Complications

• Turbulence potentially affecting patient stability
• Limited space for medical interventions during flight
• Risk of medical equipment malfunction
• Rarely, complications from altitude and air pressure changes

Benefits

• Rapid transport to appropriate medical facilities
• Continuity of medical care during the transfer
• Access to specialized or critical care unavailable at the patient's current location

Recovery

Post-transfer support based on the medical condition. Typically involves stabilization at the receiving facility and appropriate follow-up for the underlying condition.

Alternatives

• Ground ambulance for shorter distances.
• Helicopter air ambulance for locations with suitable landing zones nearby.

Pros of fixed-wing air ambulance: Suitable for long distances, rapid, and can cover more regions.
Cons: Not suitable for short distances or inaccessible areas without airfields.

Patient Experience

Patients might experience some discomfort due to movement and noise within the aircraft. Care is taken to ensure their comfort and stability throughout the journey. Pain management and comfort measures are provided as needed.