Savvy Consumers Propel Medical Tourism

We can’t imagine a patient or their family scheduling long distance medical transportation with us and not knowing in advance the complete cost and what it includes. Well finally, patients are requiring the same transparency from their doctors and hospitals, and when they cannot get it, many choose to move on to places who will provide the information. Long gone are the days when patients would rely on Medicare and other third party payers, having no concern with what the charges were. With fewer and fewer services being covered, people are sliding over to the drivers seat and taking control of the wheel when it comes to their healthcare costs.

Consumer-driven healthcare is on the rise more than ever before. While most of the leading hospitals in the United States have been serving International patients for decades, domestic medical travel is booming. With the increase in healthcare costs, patients who are cost conscious are finding that there is a wide price disparity that they can take advantage of if they are willing to do the research, and pack their bags for travel. 
Even employers and insurers are jumping on the bandwagon. Some are entering into negotiated arrangements with well known facilities such as the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio and Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore giving their employees an option to travel outside of their home area for procedures and treatments at these world famous medical centers.

For the individual consumer, we are finding that many are electing to travel a great distance to specialty surgery centers and clinics to get comparable service and treatment, at a fraction of the cost. With so many medical services/procedures not being covered by Medicare and third party payers patients are looking for transparent information and reasonable rates before they pull out their checkbooks to pay a hospital or provider.

Managed Medical Transport has been a trailblazer in the medical tourism industry, helping to connect patients throughout the United States to their destinations of preference. Every year, hundreds of thousands of patients leave their communities to travel across the United States seeking excellence in specialty medical care. Sometimes, the reason for travel is to seek better medical options, and other times, it is to receive comparable care at a much reduced price. Specialty treatment centers as well as hospital systems that offer a broad range of care from cancer treatment to preventative specialties are booming across the country. These specialty centers are often the result of research, clinical care and academics coming together as one powerful solution worth traveling to. For those patients who are unable to utilize commercial transportation or ride in the family car to reach these facilities, we provide an easy accessible solution. Easy, because there is no precertification for our service. As long as the patients condition does not require medical care that is outside of the scope of what we provide, it’s as easy as picking up the phone and presenting us with the information that we need for transport. For cross country non-emergency patient transport using medically trained personnel, call us toll free, at 1-888-668-4911 or email us at [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions

What is medical tourism?

Medical tourism refers to the practice of traveling to another country for medical care, often to save costs or access treatments not available locally. Patients are increasingly seeking transparency in pricing and quality of care before making these decisions.

How does Managed Medical Transport, Inc. support medical tourism?

Managed Medical Transport, Inc. provides safe and reliable long-distance transportation for patients traveling for medical care. We ensure that our clients have all the necessary information about costs and services included in their transport.

What should I consider before choosing a medical tourism destination?

Before selecting a medical tourism destination, consider factors such as the quality of healthcare facilities, the qualifications of medical professionals, and the overall costs involved, including travel and accommodation. Research and transparency are key to making an informed decision.

Are there any risks associated with medical tourism?

While medical tourism can offer significant savings, it also carries risks such as varying standards of care and potential complications from procedures performed abroad. It’s important to thoroughly research your chosen provider and consider travel insurance options.

How can I get a quote for transportation services for medical tourism?

You can request a quote for our transportation services by contacting us directly through our website or by phone. We provide detailed information about pricing and services tailored to your specific needs.

What steps do I need to take to prepare for medical travel?

To prepare for medical travel, ensure that you have all necessary medical documents, understand the costs involved, and arrange for transportation and accommodation in advance. It’s also helpful to communicate with your healthcare provider about your travel plans.

Read more Savvy Consumers Propel Medical Tourism

How much advance notice do you need to make a transport happen?

We can usually make just about anything happen with 2 to 3 days notice. Sometimes, we are fully booked for more than a week though, our schedule and availability is constantly changing.

The best thing to do is to call us once you have a good idea of when you want the transport to happen. We will check our availability at that time and secure the date that you want if it is available.

Often, a facility may give you little notice when they are ready to discharge, leaving you scrambling for a quick solution. Always try us first, because we may have had a last minute cancellation or have a crew that will be dropping off close by that we can work in to their schedule.

Factors Influencing Notice Requirements

While we strive to accommodate last-minute requests whenever possible, several factors can influence the amount of advance notice needed for a successful transport. The type of service requested, the distance of the transport, and the specific medical needs of the patient all play a crucial role. For instance, specialized vehicles equipped for specific medical conditions may require more time to arrange than standard transport. Additionally, if you require round-the-clock service or additional medical personnel on board, it’s advisable to provide as much notice as possible to ensure we can meet your needs effectively.

Tips for Planning Your Transport

To avoid any last-minute stress, we recommend planning your transport as early as possible. Here are some tips to help streamline the process: First, consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best time for transport based on your medical needs. Second, gather all relevant information, including the pick-up and drop-off addresses, the patient’s condition, and any special requirements. Finally, reaching out to us early allows for better coordination and increases the likelihood that we can fulfill your request as desired. Remember, our dedicated team is here to support you, so don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.

Read more How much advance notice do you need to make a transport happen?

What if my relative needs oxygen during the transport?

MMT is able to continue oxygen if the patient is already receiving it, or if they have orders to have it on standby (PRN). We are not able to initiate the use of oxygen without a doctors order however, since it is considered a prescription RX.

Understanding Oxygen Needs During Transport

When it comes to transporting patients who require oxygen, it’s essential to understand the protocols and regulations surrounding oxygen administration. Managed Medical Transport, Inc. prioritizes patient safety and comfort, ensuring that all medical needs are met during transit. If your relative is already using supplemental oxygen or has a prescription for it, our trained staff is equipped to handle these requirements seamlessly. We understand that continuity of care is crucial, especially for patients with respiratory conditions.

Ensuring Safety and Compliance

Our team is committed to adhering to all safety regulations, which is why we cannot initiate oxygen therapy without a doctor’s order. This standard ensures that oxygen use is medically necessary and appropriately managed. If your loved one requires oxygen, we recommend consulting with their healthcare provider to obtain the necessary prescriptions and orders before scheduling transport. This preparation will help us provide the best possible service and meet your relative’s needs effectively during the journey.

Additional Considerations for Transporting Patients

Beyond oxygen needs, it’s important to communicate any other medical requirements your relative may have. This can include medications, monitoring equipment, or specific mobility aids. Informing our team about these needs in advance allows us to prepare adequately, ensuring a smooth and comfortable transport experience. Furthermore, we encourage family members to stay engaged and informed throughout the process, as patient-centric care is at the heart of what we do.

In conclusion, Managed Medical Transport, Inc. is here to support patients requiring oxygen and other medical assistance during transport. By working together with healthcare providers and families, we can ensure that every transport is safe, compliant, and tailored to the unique needs of each patient.

Read more What if my relative needs oxygen during the transport?