When you think of air travel, you might picture bustling airports and tightly arranged seating configurations. However, for some, especially those who cannot travel in a seated position, the journey is not so straightforward. This is where our stretcher transport comes in, offering dignity, comfort, and safety to individuals facing unique health challenges. Whether you are navigating a medical crisis, planning post-surgery travel, or simply curious about this lesser-known service, this guide unravels the world of stretcher transport. From commercial flights to specialized air ambulances, we will explore how MTI 24/7’s aeromedical transport services are redefining mobility for those who need it most.
What is stretcher transport and how can it help you?
Stretcher transport allows patients to travel lying down on commercial flights or air ambulances.
It is used for medical repatriation and evacuation, benefiting those with various medical conditions.
MTI 24/7 offers personalized services, including regular and bariatric stretchers with medical escorts.
The cost of this patient transport solution varies based on factors like distance, urgency, and level of care required.
What does stretcher transport mean?
Stretcher transport is a specialized travel service designed for individuals who need to remain in a lying position during their journey. It involves installing a medical-grade stretcher in the economy-class section of a commercial airliner, effectively creating a safe and comfortable space for the patient.
Why do you need stretcher transport?
MTI 24/7’s stretcher transport service is typically needed for two main scenarios:
Medical repatriation: This involves returning patients to their home country after experiencing an illness or injury abroad. Medical repatriation ensures you can receive care in a setting where you are most comfortable, near your support network of family and friends, and within a healthcare system you are familiar with.
Medical evacuation: This refers to transferring patients to another country for life-threatening or limb-saving treatments not available in their current location. Medical evacuation allows you to access cutting-edge treatments, specialist expertise, or advanced medical technologies, potentially improving your chances for a full recovery.
In both cases, stretcher transport plays a vital role in ensuring that those who cannot travel in a seated position can still undertake these necessary medical journeys safely and comfortably.
Who can benefit from MTI’s stretcher transport services?
Our stretcher transport services are an adequate option for a wide range of patients, including:
Those experiencing temporary disabilities due to injuries, like a traveler with a broken leg from a skiing accident.
Individuals with cardiovascular conditions that complicate prolonged sitting, as seen in cases of severe leg edema.
People dealing with chronic pain conditions aggravated by sitting, including patients with severe arthritis or fibromyalgia.
People undergoing long-term treatments needing comfortable transportation, like a patient traveling abroad for specialized cancer care.
Elderly patients too frail for standard seating arrangements, for example, an 85-year-old returning home after an overseas family visit.
Individuals with mobility issues that prevent sitting for extended periods, for instance, a person managing advanced multiple sclerosis.
Patients recovering from surgeries requiring a flat position during travel, particularly those who have recently undergone abdominal procedures.
Those with back or spinal conditions necessitating a horizontal position, such as individuals recuperating from herniated disc operations.
It is important to note that our stretcher transport is suitable for stable patients whose conditions allow for commercial air travel. For complex or severe cases requiring intensive care or constant medical intervention, our air ambulance services is more appropriate. Our ambulance aircraft are equipped with ICU-level medical equipment and staffed by experienced medical professionals, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the journey.
How does our stretcher transport work on a commercial airliner?
When Medical Transport International 24/7 sets up your stretcher transport, we carefully secure a stretcher in the economy class section by removing several rows of seats in the aircraft's. This setup allows the patient to travel while lying down, just as they would in a hospital bed. The stretcher is equipped with all necessary medical features to ensure the patient's comfort and safety throughout the flight. To maintain privacy, the patient is shielded by a curtain, creating a discreet and personal space within the cabin.
To accommodate diverse patient needs, our service offers two distinct stretcher options:
Regular stretcher: Designed for most patients, measuring 23-24 inches in width and supporting up to 350-400 pounds.
Bariatric stretcher: Specially engineered for larger individuals, with a width of 29-40 inches and a robust weight capacity of 600-1000 pounds or more.
Our trained medical escort will accompany you , providing continuous care and monitoring throughout the journey. In exceptional cases where more intensive medical support is required, we can arrange for a full medical team to accompany you, ensuring comprehensive care even in complex situations.
What are the benefits of Medical Transport International 24/7's stretcher transport service?
Our stretcher transport service offers numerous benefits:
Cost-effective: More affordable than air ambulances for stable patients.
Expertise: Our team's extensive experience ensures smooth and safe transport.
Accessible travel: Enables travel for those who could not otherwise use commercial flights.
Seamless coordination: We handle all logistics with airlines and airport authorities.
Flexibility: Available on many commercial routes, offering various destination options.
Comfort: Allows patients to travel lying down, reducing discomfort during long flights.
Customization: Choice between regular and bariatric stretchers to suit individual needs.
Medical care: Continuous monitoring by a trained medical escort throughout the journey.
Familiarity: Patients travel on regular flights, which can be less stressful than specialized medical transport.
By choosing Medical Transport International, you benefit from our comprehensive approach to patient care and travel logistics, ensuring a comfortable and secure journey from start to finish.
Can airline companies decline your request for a stretcher transport?
Yes, airline companies can decline a request for stretcher transport. This decision is typically based on several factors:
Aircraft type: Some planes may not have the necessary space or configuration to safely accommodate a stretcher.
Capacity: There may be limitations on the number of stretcher transports an airline can accommodate on a single flight.
Route: Certain routes or flights may not be suitable for stretcher transport due to duration or other operational considerations.
Medical condition: If the airline deems the patient's condition too complex or risky for a commercial flight, they may refuse this service.
Regulatory compliance: Airlines must adhere to aviation regulations, which can sometimes limit their ability to provide stretcher transport.
At MTI 24/7, we work closely with multiple airlines to maximize the chances of securing stretcher transport for our patients.
What are the alternatives to commercial stretcher transport?
When commercial stretcher transport is not viable, an air ambulance provides a crucial alternative. These specialized aircraft are essentially flying intensive care units, designed to transport patients requiring complex air care. MTI 24/7's ambulance planes are equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology and staffed by a team of highly skilled medical professionals, including experienced doctors and critical care nurses or paramedics, ensuring comprehensive care throughout the journey.
Our air ambulances have several unique features that set them apart:
Their interior is custom-designed for optimal patient care, with ample space for medical equipment and easy access to the patient from all sides.
They are equipped with advanced life support equipment, such as ventilators, cardiac monitors, and infusion pumps, allowing for hospital-level care at 30,000 feet.
They can handle complex medical cases, including patients on ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation) or those requiring constant critical care monitoring.
They offer flexibility in flight routes and schedules.
Our air ambulance transport offers several significant benefits over commercial airliners for patients with complex medical needs:
Space: More room for medical procedures and equipment.
Speed: Often faster due to more direct routes and fewer stops.
Altitude control: Can seemingly fly at low altitude if medically necessary.
Privacy: Exclusive use of the aircraft for the patient and medical team.
Continuous care: Uninterrupted medical attention throughout the entire journey.
Scheduling: We are not bound by commercial flight schedules.
Flexibility: Can fly to and from a wider range of airports, including smaller facilities.
Medical capability: Equipped to handle more severe or complex medical conditions.
Customized care: Medical equipment and staff tailored to the patient's specific needs.
Reduced stress: Eliminates the complexities of navigating busy airports and commercial flights.
How much does stretcher transport cost?
At MTI 24/7, we provide customized pricing to ensure you receive the most appropriate solution for your specific needs. With this in mind, the cost of stretcher transport can vary significantly depending on several factors, including:
Distance: Longer flights generally cost more.
Season: Peak travel seasons can affect pricing.
Type of stretcher: Bariatric stretchers may cost more than standard ones.
Number of seats occupied: Stretchers typically require multiple seat rows.
Airline: Different airlines have varying pricing structures for stretcher transport.
Level of medical care required: Additional medical staff or equipment increases the price.
For an accurate quote, contact us directly with your specific travel needs. We can then provide a detailed breakdown of costs and explore options to ensure you receive the most cost-effective solution for your medical transport requirements.
Why choose our stretcher transportation services?
Choosing MTI 24/7 for your stretcher transportation needs offers several key benefits:
Experience: Our team has extensive expertise in medical transport logistics.
Comprehensive service: We handle all aspects from booking to in-flight care.
24/7 support: Our team is available round-the-clock to address any concerns.
Personalized care: We tailor our services to each patient's specific medical needs.
Global network: We work with numerous airlines worldwide, increasing flight options.
Seamless coordination: We liaise with airlines, airports, and medical facilities to ensure smooth transfers.
Multilingual team: Our diverse staff speaks multiple languages, ensuring clear communication and cultural sensitivity throughout your journey.
How to book a stretcher transport on commercial flights with MTI 24/7?
Booking a stretcher transport with MTI 24/7 is a straightforward process designed to ensure your comfort and safety. Here are the key steps:
Initial contact and assessment: Reach out to us via phone, email, or our website. Share details about the patient's medical condition, travel dates, and destination. Our team will then evaluate the patient's needs to determine the appropriate level of care.
Flight selection and confirmation: We will present suitable flight options based on the patient's requirements. Once you approve, we will secure the booking with the airline and assist in preparing the necessary medical and travel documents.
Comprehensive coordination: Our team will arrange ground transport, coordinate with all involved parties, and conduct a pre-flight check to ensure everything is in order. On the day of travel, our medical escort will meet the patient and oversee the entire journey.
By choosing MTI 24/7, you are ensuring a smooth, safe, and comfortable stretcher transport experience tailored to your specific needs.
Contact us to book your stretcher transport!
Experience safe, comfortable stretcher transport with MTI 24/7. Our expert team ensures personalized care and seamless coordination worldwide. Contact us today to discuss your unique needs and receive a customized quote for your journey.
Reach us by:
Phone: USA: +1 646 335 06 83 / UK: +44 20 3608 0959
Email: info@mti-247.com
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