Non-emergency medical transportation has become extremely important for patients recovering from illness or mobility issues. Day surgery transportation is the new popular mode of travel for such people. However, others prefer ride shares for similar purposes, mainly due to their affordability. Today, we shall discuss both options and explore the pros and cons because choosing the right vehicle is essential if you have undergone surgery, no matter how small. A lot of injuries can occur as a result of impact on the road. Do not take your chances with that.

Day Surgery Transportation vs Ride-SharePhoto bycanva

Specialized Day Surgery Transportation vs Ride-Share 

• Availability and Accessibility 

Arranging transportation to and from surgery beforehand is essential when discussing day surgery. Since it's a non-emergency medical need, there's a high chance that ambulance services will not be available. So that leaves us with ride-shares or specialized vehicles. Regarding the former, getting a ride as per your preferred schedule may be difficult. Since shared rides deal with more than one patient, finding a ride that suits your time and needs is extremely challenging. 

On the other hand, you can access specialized day surgery transportation just as and when you want. All you have to do is book an appointment for your preferred time, and the van will be at your doorstep. It is easier to book, and you do not need to wait for other patients. It is very convenient for people who live alone or have no one to accompany them.

• Vehicles 

Regarding the quality of vehicles, specialized day surgery transportation is by far superior to shared rides. The vehicles are structured for patients and thus have all the necessary safety measures and medical equipment. The padded seats and beds help minimize any impact that might cause injury to the patient. They even have space for stretchers and wheelchairs. Ride-sharing vehicles may be congested if you have too many riders. It's not an excellent option for long routes and severe patients. They hardly have sophisticated medical or safety tools, making the ride less reliable for patients with severe mobility issues or critical injuries. 

• Service 

NEMT vans come with professional caregivers trained to handle patients the best. They know all stretcher and wheelchair transfer techniques, which makes it safe. They can also operate some medical equipment like oxygen and CPR to handle emergencies that may arise during transit. 

In the case of shared rides, the driver does not pay too much attention to individual passengers and thus must have a friend or family member with you when traveling with them. Elderly living alone and requiring day surgery transportation can easily book NEMT services. The agency constantly monitors the drivers; thus, they drive extremely carefully, considering the patient's condition. It is important to have a decent driver when returning from day surgery, as rash or careless driving may cause injuries to the patient.

• Cost 

Shared rides are more affordable than specialized day surgery transportation. Since the vehicle carries more than one patient at a time and does not particularly address an individual, it is a better cost-effective option. NEMT specialized vans and their services cost more simply because they are better equipped and more comfortable for patients. So, if you do not have severe mobility or health issues and have an escort, you can opt for shared rides. However, in the case of a more serious patient, it is best to opt for the other option. 

Final Words 

Specialized medical vans are connecting seniors to wellness every day. They have become a favorite due to the facilities and safety equipment they come with. However, choosing a ride-share vehicle or a day surgery transportation is up to you. They may work well if it is a short ride and you do not have serious issues. For a more secure and comfortable ride, book a NEMT van beforehand.