5 Essential Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Bariatric Ground Transport Company

Bariatric ground transport is a form of medical transportation specifically designed to meet the needs of bariatric patients. This kind of transport is designed to offer the comfort and safety that traditional transport may fail to provide. Patients are considered to be bariatric if they have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30.

Consequently, a bariatric patient’s weight and size often make it uncomfortable and unsafe to transport them via traditional ambulances not explicitly designed for such purpose.

As such, special transportation that can meet the patient’s requirements have to be used. Bariatric ground transport companies now offer special transportation services that are ideal for transporting bariatric patients. However, there are some factors to consider when choosing a bariatric ground transport company. Below are a few of the major factors to consider.

1. Level of Care Required

Some bariatric patients are reasonably mobile and can move or be moved with relative ease. Others might be bedridden and require more assistance to move safely. Equally important is the level of medical attention that the patient would often require in transit. Some basic medical care is enough in some instances, while others require advanced medical attention even in transit. Therefore, it’s imperative to choose a company that can provide the needed level of care.

2. Type of Vehicle

Another vital factor to consider when choosing a bariatric ground transport company is the type of vehicles available. Large vehicles with wide doors are needed to accommodate bariatric patients. Other essential factors to note are the weight and size limitations. It’s important to verify that the vehicles can transport a bariatric patient safely and comfortably.

3. Equipment Condition and Suitability.

To successfully transport a bariatric patient, a bariatric ground transport service must have the right equipment to accommodate and serve a bariatric patient. For instance, intramuscular injections must be done with longer needles, and blood pressure cuffs must be in the appropriate size.

Furthermore, the wheelchairs and stretchers must also be specially designed for bariatric patients. Overall, equipment must be large-sized and suitable for bariatric patients to facilitate the smooth movement of the patient. Weight limitations of lifting equipment like stretchers and wheelchairs must also be considered.

4. Availability of Door-to-Door Service

It is important to verify whether a particular bariatric ground transport company offers door-to-door service. It would be difficult and inconvenient if the patient has to be moved to a different location before being transported. Therefore, it is necessary to confirm if they offer door-to-door service before hiring them. In some cases, a company might even provide bed-to-bed services.

5. Personnel Capability and Competence

Transporting a bariatric patient requires more personnel. In fact, a minimum of four individuals must be available to move a bariatric patient safely. As such, you must choose a company that has adequate personnel for the trip.

Also, there are guidelines and algorithms that are designed to guarantee the safety of both patients and personnel in the course of transporting a bariatric patient.  Specifically, Bariatric Algorithm 6 details the procedures for transporting a bariatric patient. Hence, it is necessary to consider the knowledge and competence of the personnel before opting for any bariatric ground transport service.

The factors highlighted in this article will help you choose the right medical transport company; that offers a seamless bariatric ground transport service that guarantees the safety and comfort of the patient at all times.

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