Are you looking for wheelchair transportation? With an estimated 3.3 million wheelchair users in the US, various medical transportation options are available. So, how can you determine the best option for you?
When you need wheelchair transportation, navigating the public transport system or a taxi is the last thing you want to worry about. The good news is there are a variety of comfortable medical transportation options.
Knowing your options is the first step to determining the best service for your mobility needs. Here are the different types of wheelchair transportation services to consider.
NEMT Wheelchair Transportation
NEMT stands for non-emergency medical transportation. NEMT wheelchair transportation caters to wheelchair users so they reach their destination in comfort. Destinations may include:
- Medical appointments
- Personal errands
- Family events
- Special occasions
These professionally-made vehicles have wheelchair ramps and electric hydraulic lifts. So you or a loved one can stay in their wheelchair throughout the ride. There is no worry of having to get out of your wheelchair and struggle to fit your wheelchair in the vehicle.
These services are suitable for wheelchairs and electric-powered chairs. Transportation services have a crew to assist users.
Gurney Transportation
Gurney transportation is for those who may need to lie down during transport. Often, it is used for:
- The equipment your loved one uses
- Patients with limited mobility
- Patients having treatment such as dialysis
- Patients with specific medical conditions
Sometimes stretcher transportation is also known as gurney transportation. The key is to check if the stretcher has wheels or not. If the stretcher has wheels, it is also gurney transportation.
A gurney transportation service allows staff to transport the patient without carrying them. Sometimes transportation services use a bariatric gurney, which is when a collapsible wheel frame is on a stretcher. There is also electric gurney transportation.
At Affinity Transit, we use the latest technology for stretcher transportation. This includes:
- Power-PRO XT Stretchers and XPS Siderails
- MX PRO Bariatric Transport
This equipment allows for maximum comfort with expandable surfaces. The battery-operated hydraulic system ensures all patients can be transported in comfort. There is also the option for O2 systems when needed.
Stair Chair Lift Service
You can look for specialized transportation services if you have a specific mobility need. For example, if you have an appointment involving stairs or other mobility challenges. Around 12.1% of people with a mobility disability have serious difficulty walking or climbing stairs.
Stair chair lift assistance transportation services safely get you up and down stairs. There are electric stair chairs, so you can relax as trained staff get you to your destination.
Hospital Discharge Transportation
Another example of specialized wheelchair transportation is hospital discharge. Experience a smooth transition back home with a private transportation service.
These transportation services can meet different levels of needs, so you can select the best option for you. Reduce discharge stress and the associated health risks with a comfortable journey home.
Door-To-Door Transportation
When looking for wheelchair transportation, you may also want a door-to-door transportation service. This type of transportation service offers assistance from the home to the end location.
Staff are trained to help transport you into your wheelchair or stretcher and then into the transport safely.
Curb-To-Curb Transportation
Some people prefer non-medical medical transportation that starts and ends at the curb. The transportation service will arrange where to collect you and drop you off. People like this transportation option when they need a less hands-on approach.
Emergency Medical Transportation
In an emergency, it is important to contact emergency services for wheelchair medical transportation. Emergency transportation offers the assistance of medical professionals, medical resources, and equipment to get you to the hospital safely.
Usually, this is in the form of ambulance transportation. Ambulance transportation should only be used in the event of an emergency due to the costs and medical resources they use.
How To Choose Wheelchair Transportation
So, now you know the different wheelchair transportation options. But how do you choose the best option for your loved one or your needs? There are several factors to consider that can help narrow down your choice.
Mobility Needs
What are your mobility needs with your wheelchair? Do you need trained staff to help assist you out of your home? Some of the main concerns people have include:
- Staff training
- Vehicle design
- Vehicle technology
- Assistance with physical obstacles
Do not be afraid to ask the service for the information you need. You can also check the situation at the end destination. If you know there will be stairs or other mobility needs, you can check with the service if they can assist you.
Equipment Needs
Do you have medical equipment to take with you? Check the transportation can cater for equipment such as oxygen. If you need a stretcher, check if they can cater to your size and medical needs.
Destination Options
Not all non-emergency medical transportation offers the same services. Some services only focus on medical transportation. Other transportation services provide transport to run errands and attend other events.
Reputation and Experience
Check that the transportation service is for disabled transportation. The best services have trained staff and specialized vehicles for a comfortable ride. They should also have the proper permits and accreditations to offer the service.
The best services have trained staff and specialized vehicles for a comfortable ride. They should also have the proper permits and accreditations to offer the service.
You can also check if the company’s reputation matches its promises. Ask to read customer testimonials and check independent reviews online.
Wheelchair Transportation in Los Angeles
Do not worry about the headache of using a taxi or public transportation. Pick a wheelchair transportation service passionate about providing safe and comfortable rides.
You can also look for a service that provides various non-emergency medical transportation options. If you are based in Los Angeles County, look no further than Affinity Transit.
We are a family-owned business that serves all clients and conditions. We can guarantee a safe, comfortable, and reliable ride no matter your needs. Contact us to learn more about our services.