Air ambulance: The future of patient commute

Image courtesy: Ziqita

Finding and booking an ambulance – whether an air ambulance or a ground ambulance can be a daunting task. At the time, when every breath of your loved ones is precious and each moment you spend with them is crucial, wasting even a second seems like the worst thing in the world. Particularly in India where booking even a ground ambulance is a seemingly difficult task, one even gives up when it comes to finding an air ambulance. Fortunately, this all might change with AMB life which envisions an online platform where ambulance providers all across the globe can not only register but can also get in touch directly with the patients. It allows for a user to search air ambulances and road or ground ambulances in country, state and even to the cities of their choosing. Backed by a robust technology that provides for a user-friendly interface, it aims to change the logistical fabric of ambulances in cities around the globe.
The history of Air ambulance
The pioneers in the field of air ambulances are the European countries like France, Britain and Spain. But these were mostly used for causalities of war. During and after Second World War, its use increased exponentially aided by US push. But in many parts of the globe, it was usually reserved as a war-time savior. In India, it was India Aero medical services that kick started the concept of air ambulance in 1995.
Air ambulance: an untapped service
Air ambulance usage is generally rare and is undertaken only in extreme circumstances. It could be particularly helpful in remote areas if not for the high cost incurred. Unlike ground or road ambulance services which are relatively easy to understand and undertake, air ambulance is another nut all together. This is mainly due to ignorance about the various terminologies used in air ambulance and absence of platform to choose the most cost – effective one. The inconsistencies and in many cases absence of laws or guidelines regarding air ambulance has also contributed to its rare usage. The absence of medically suited aircrafts are also an issue.
At AMB life, one can easily understand the meanings of commonly used terminologies like MEDVAC, CASEVAC, RVSM, EMS, EMT, Bedside-to-Bedside etc.
Cost component in Air Ambulance
The cost component is the single most important factor in case of air ambulance. While ground and road ambulance are generally cheaper, the same isn’t true for air ambulance. Depending on the requirements of the patient, type of aircraft, availability and need of medical staff/s, presence of insurance cover, facilities offered etc., cost could vary immensely.
It is here that AMB life shows its true utility. By providing different service providers to register on its platform, it presents the patient with a one-stop portal where they can’t just search about the air ambulance availability near their locality but can also look at the ratings, reviews and insurance covers. These not just helps them make an informed decision but also makes it a lot easier.
Air ambulance is an exciting prospect of patient commute particularly for remote and far flung areas. The need is to make them more affordable my providing appropriate insurance basket and making it easier to reach out. While AMB life can easily take care of the later, the onus of providing the former rests with the service providers and insurance companies.
Visit www.amblife.com for more.
Note: This article has been written for GnextTechnologies and Amb life.