Name of the Procedure:

Ambulance Service, Conventional Air Service, Nonemergency Transport, One Way (Fixed Wing)

• Common names: Air Ambulance Service, Fixed Wing Air Transport
• Technical terms: HCPCS Code S9960, Fixed Wing Nonemergency Air Transport

Summary

A fixed-wing air ambulance service provides nonemergency medical transport using an airplane to transfer patients from one location to another, typically between medical facilities.

Purpose

This service is used to transport patients who need medical supervision but are not in immediate life-threatening situations. The goal is to ensure safe and timely transfer while providing necessary medical care during the flight.

Indications

• Patients requiring specialized treatment at a distant medical facility.
• Stable patients who need medical supervision during transport.
• Patients who are immobile or unable to travel by ground transport due to distance or terrain.

Preparation

• Medical assessment by the sending physician.
• Coordination between sending and receiving medical facilities.
• Essential medical documents and patient care summary for the flight crew.
• Notify patient and family about transport details.

Procedure Description

1. Pre-flight preparation:

   • Medical assessment and approval.
   • Coordinate logistics and ensure all equipment and medications are onboard.

2. Patient transfer:

   • Transport from the hospital to the airstrip via ground ambulance.
   • Secure the patient in the aircraft, ensuring comfort and safety.

3. During the flight:

   • Continuous medical monitoring and care.
   • Using medical equipment such as oxygen tanks, defibrillators, and monitors.

4. Landing and transfer:

   • Coordination with receiving hospital.
   • Transfer patient from the aircraft to another ground ambulance.
   • Final transfer to the receiving facility.

Duration

Typically ranges from a few hours to half a day, depending on the distance between the departure and destination points.

Setting

The procedure occurs in multiple settings: departing medical facility, airport, fixed-wing aircraft, destination airport, and receiving medical facility.

Personnel

• Trained flight crew.
• Medical team including a critical care nurse and a paramedic.
• Ground ambulance staff for transfers.

Risks and Complications

• Common risks:
  • Patient discomfort due to the confined space and movement.
  • Potential for air pressure-related issues.
• Rare risks:
  • Medical complications due to underlying health conditions.
  • Mechanical failure or adverse weather conditions.

Benefits

• Efficient, long-distance medical transport.
• Continuous medical care throughout the journey.
• Transporting to specialized facilities for appropriate treatment.

Recovery

• Patients typically do not require extended recovery specific to the transport but should follow the receiving facility’s care instructions.
• Monitor for signs of stress or medical issues post-transport.

Alternatives

• Ground Ambulance Service: Limited to shorter distances and may take significantly longer for long-range transports.
• Helicopter Ambulance Service: Suitable for shorter distances and emergencies due to higher cost and limited range.

Patient Experience

• The patient may feel some discomfort due to the confined space and movement during takeoff and landing.
• Medical staff will manage any pain and discomfort, ensuring patient comfort throughout the flight.
• Constant communication with the crew for reassurance.

Note: This outline provides a comprehensive understanding of the fixed-wing air ambulance service procedure for patients and caretakers considering this medical transport option.