What is an air ambulance?
Critical care aircraft are specially equipped as flying intensive care units. They will provide a FAA approved flight stretcher, specialized medical equipment, a full assortment of patient specific drugs and medications. The aircraft is staffed with a medical team to meet the specific needs of the patient..
When should someone consider an air ambulance over other ways of transporting a patient?
Air ambulances are effective when the patient needs to travel more than 250 miles and they need specialized medical care or procedures. Specialized procedures range from cancer treatment, burn care, head and spinal cord injury and strokes. In addition, the elderly that cannot travel commercially due to the stress and security issues associated with commercial airports will benefit from our air ambulance service. Air ambulance transfers bring people home to be near their families, to medical facilities for specialized treatment and rehabilitation centres for specific care. Medical air transport is recommended for patients who need to be moved quickly because of a serious illness or injury. This could include transplant patients, cardiac patients, neonatal conditions, evacuations or bringing a loved one home from a distant location.
What types of transport are available through Swift Air Ambulance Services Ltd?
We use fixed wing aircraft and ground ambulance, and provide medical escorts on commercial airlines. Our Trip Coordinators will discuss all the options with you when you call, to help determine the most appropriate transfer in terms of the patient's condition and your family's budget.
Will the family need to schedule a ground ambulance to get the patient to the airport?
No. The Customer Care Team at Swift Air Ambulance Services Ltd will handle all of the logistics necessary to get the patient to the air ambulance, including bedside-to-bedside service if necessary
How expensive is an air ambulance service?
A medical transfer can be somewhat of a costly procedure, but there are many ways to control and reduce the cost. Aircraft positioning, and how quickly you need to move the patient are two of the most important factors in pricing this kind of a transfer. Locating an aircraft in close proximity to the patient is the most significant factor in saving money! This is where Swift Air Ambulance Ltd truly can assist you in saving money. Also, if you are flexible on the day that you want to move the patient or can give us a few days notice before the transfer, we will most likely, be able to arrange your trip with a Cost Saving Flight.
The cost depends on the type of transport, the medical staff and equipment needed, the distance to be travelled, the timing of the trip, and if international service is required. Our Trip Coordinators will give you a quote over the phone, and can provide a written quote upon request.
Can someone fly with the patient in an air ambulance?
Yes, in most aircraft there is room for at least one additional passenger. Swift Air Ambulance Services Ltd does not charge any additional fees for one or two extra people. The number of passengers is controlled by the medical condition and needs of the patient, the number of medical personnel onboard and the type of aircraft we use. In most cases 1 to 2 passengers are able to travel with the patient.
How much luggage can we bring on the aircraft?
Luggage is limited to 2 small to medium sized bags, typically no larger than a carry on bag for a commercial airline. The aircraft is outfitted with a significant amount of medical equipment and space is limited. The patients care always takes priority. Our customers usually forward non-essential items before the transfer .
Will your air ambulance fly someone internationally?
Yes. Swift Air Ambulance Services Ltd provides air ambulance transfers internationally to all continents of the world. We have an in-depth partner qualification process that allows us to provide strategically located aircraft and medical teams to control cost and provide professional service for your patient, while maintaining the highest level of medical care. We are professionals and know how to find the proper aircraft and medical team nearest to your patient or loved one. (Cost Saving Feature/Strategically Located Partners). We specifically provide international transfers currently. For flights out of Nigeria the patient and passengers will need current passports or visas.
How much notice do you need to arrange an air ambulance transfer?
Most transfers are arranged and scheduled a few days in advance. Typically, the air ambulance arrangements can be made and begin within 2 to 4 hours. In the transfer in an international air ambulance, there are many controlling factors that determine how quickly the aircraft can be dispatched. Some of these pacing items are: passports and visas for the patient and all passengers must be available, if there is a need to advance flight crews ahead of the aircraft on long haul flights, what international permits and landing arrangements need to be made and there are other factors not mentioned.
What coverage does insurance provide?
Please check your insurance policy for specifics. In most cases, if the flight is recommended by a doctor because it is a medical emergency to move a patient to a facility that can provide essential medical service that is not available where the patient is presently located, it is likely that a portion or all of the cost will be covered by insurance. Emergency flights due to injury and illness are also usually covered. In almost all cases, elective flights for able patients are not covered. For Example, getting a recovered patient back home is usually not covered
Is your proposal all inclusive?
Yes! When you speak with one of our Flight Coordinators they will provide you with a written proposal that will detail every aspect of the transfer. The proposal will identify the cities involved, the aircraft, medical team, ground ambulances and all charges for the transfer. There are NO HIDDEN costs
.How do I pay for this service?
Swift Air Ambulance Services Ltd accepts all major credit cards, bank wire transfers, Cheques, Certified Bank Draft, We accept Visa, MasterCard. Payment is required prior to finalizing the trip schedule; all services are paid for prior to aircraft dispatch.
What types of medical personnel accompany my patient on the flight?
Depending on the medical condition of the patient, the flight crew will include a Registered Nurse with air ambulance experience, a Respiratory Therapist, a Paramedic
Do you supply medical oxygen?
Yes. We supply ample oxygen to cover the duration of the flight plus one hour, and an additional supply to support the patient during transport from the plane to the final destination. We also have a back-up supply in case of a power failure.
Can you accommodate a patient with an IV?
Yes. We hang IV fluid bags and monitor regularly throughout the flight
Is suction available if necessary to keep the patient's airways clear?
Yes. The air ambulances used by Swift Air Ambulance Services Ltd are fully equipped and staffed to monitor all medical conditions and emergencies.
Do you supply extra blankets and towels?
Yes. The safety and comfort of our patients and their families is a primary concern. When you talk to our Trip Coordinators or Customer Care Representatives, please let them know of any additional personal care items you may require. ?
What is “Bed to Bed” service?
Bed to Bed service is when the medical team from the air ambulance will go to the discharging hospital to meet the patient in their room, do an assessment of the patient and comfort them about the transfer. They then travel with the patient in the ground ambulance to the aircraft. The same process takes place at the arrival city where the medical team travels with the patient to the receiving facility. They will provide a briefing for the receiving hospital nurse. This provides continuity of care for the entire transfer.
Do you keep medical records?
Medical records are reviewed by our medical team who flies with the patient, as well as between the sending and receiving facilities. Additionally, a complete report is filed on the completion of the flight, alerting the family as well as the receiving facility to any unforeseen events that may have occurred during the flight, as well as the current medical condition of the patient.
What happens when a flight is delayed or diverted because of weather or other problems?
We will do whatever possible to get a patient to his or her destination, but sometimes circumstances are out of our control. In every case, we will keep the patient's well-being at the forefront and expedite the transfer as best we can.
I have seen acronyms for different levels of care, but I do not understand what they mean. Please explain the differences between BLS, ALS and CC?
BLS means "basic life support." This is the type of care for patients who need minimal external life support, but still need monitoring and care. Some of the equipment required might include an FFA approved stretcher, oxygen, blood pressure monitoring, IVs and certified emergency medical personnel.
ALS means "acute life support," which includes all of the above as well as the possibility of cardiac defibrillation and the potential for dealing with trauma and other conditions that would necessitate a higher level of care.
Do you supply extra blankets and towels?
Yes. The safety and comfort of our patients and their families is a primary concern. When you talk to our Trip Coordinators or Customer Care Representatives, please let them know of any additional personal care items you may require
What is “Bed to Bed” service?
Bed to Bed service is when the medical team from the air ambulance will go to the discharging hospital to meet the patient in their room, do an assessment of the patient and comfort them about the transfer. They then travel with the patient in the ground ambulance to the aircraft. The same process takes place at the arrival city where the medical team travels with the patient to the receiving facility. They will provide a briefing for the receiving hospital nurse. This provides continuity of care for the entire transfere
Do you keep medical records?
Medical records are reviewed by our medical team who flies with the patient, as well as between the sending and receiving facilities. Additionally, a complete report is filed on the completion of the flight, alerting the family as well as the receiving facility to any unforeseen events that may have occurred during the flight, as well as the current medical condition of the patient.
What happens when a flight is delayed or diverted because of weather or other problems?
We will do whatever possible to get a patient to his or her destination, but sometimes circumstances are out of our control. In every case, we will keep the patient's well-being at the forefront and expedite the transfer as best we can.
I have seen acronyms for different levels of care, but I do not understand what they mean. Please explain the differences between BLS, ALS and CC?
BLS means "basic life support." This is the type of care for patients who need minimal external life support, but still need monitoring and care. Some of the equipment required might include an FFA approved stretcher, oxygen, blood pressure monitoring, IVs and certified emergency medical personnel.
ALS means "acute life support," which includes all of the above as well as the possibility of cardiac defibrillation and the potential for dealing with trauma and other conditions that would necessitate a higher level of care.
Do you provide a written proposal?
Yes! As mentioned before, it is very important for you to obtain a written proposal for your transfer. This protects you and identifies exactly what you will receive in your transfer. Air Ambulance Worldwide provides this to you for every transfer.
What is required to arrange an air ambulance transfer?
Place a call to our 24 hour dispatch and information centre where a Flight Coordinator will walk you through the entire process, patiently answering any questions that you have and providing you with the least expensive solution. The Flight Coordinator will ask you a few pertinent questions about the patient and then respond to you with a written proposal. The entire process only takes a few minutes. . We look forward to receiving your call and to have an opportunity to earn your business
Is it alright to use a Broker?
This is a thought provoking question. It could easily be reversed and stated, “Should I use an Operator?” I believe you can answer both questions with, “YES”. You see there are Quality Operators and Quality Brokers in the air ambulance business, as well as Poor Operators and Poor Brokers. Our focus is on providing safe quality care of your patient by using quality operators that we have identified around the world. Swift Air Ambulance Services Ltd has the expertise in knowing what questions to ask of an Operator to make sure that their aircraft and medical staff is first rate. Swift Air Ambulance Services Ltd also has arrangements with several operators in the area of your patient so the flight miles are kept to a minimum and there is always the potential for a connecting flight.
What do I have to do to fly my patient or loved one?
One call to 07037923404 does it all. Our team manages the entire process for you. When you call to schedule a trip, our flight coordinators will request the following information: (See our printable "Air Ambulance Guide" on the website).
• Sending and receiving facilities along with to and from locations. • Sending and receiving physician information. • Date and time you would like the patient to travel. • Method of payment.Our flight coordinators will then do the rest. They manage communications between facilities, physicians, case managers, admission personal, airports, ambulances and families. Furthermore, they schedule ground transportations on both ends of the transport and coordinate with the medical flight teams.
What’s all included in the quote?
Swift Air Ambulance Services Ltd’s written quotes are all-inclusive. There are no hidden charges or add-ons. They include ground transportation, air transportation, medications and supplies, and of course the professional services of the Medical Flight Team. Any special permits involved with international travel will be included.
How much advance notice is needed?
Normally it takes 7-10 days’ advance notice to make the necessary arrangements.
Is there a limit on where you can provide this service?
No, this service is available in the Nigeria and is not limited, though there are very specific guidelines and few restrictions.
What’s all included in the quote?
SWIFT AIR AMBULANCE SERVICES LTD’s written quotes are all-inclusive. There are no hidden charges or add-ons. They include ground transportation, air transportation, medications and supplies, and of course the professional services of the Medical Flight Team. Any special permits involved with international travel will be included..
Air Ambulance Transfer Questions
What do I have to do to fly my patient or loved one?
One call to 07037923404 does it all. Our team manages the entire process for you. When you call to schedule a trip, our flight coordinators will request the following information: (See our printable "Air Ambulance Guide" on the website).
• Sending and receiving facilities along with to and from locations. • Sending and receiving physician information. • Date and time you would like the patient to travel. • Method of payment.Our flight coordinators will then do the rest. They manage communications between facilities, physicians, case managers, admission personal, airports, ambulances and families. Furthermore, they schedule ground transportations on both ends of the transport and coordinate with the medical flight teams.
What is needed for International Travel?
International Passengers and Patients Must have the following: Government issued current Passport, A valid visa to the country of destination.
What kind of Air Ambulance services do you offer?
Swift Air Ambulance Services Ltd provides a variety of Advanced Air Ambulance Transport Services from Critical Care to elective air medical transport. Services offered include Private Air Ambulance including a wide range of aircraft to include airliners. Aircraft are equipped as flying mobile Intensive Care units and are capable of care from the most basic patient to the Critical Care (ICU) patient.
Medical Escorts Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the price?
We include everything in our price that is a Bedside to Bedside full service commercial air medical service. Swift Air Ambulance Services Ltd will obtain the required airline clearances; Swift Air Ambulance Services Ltd will book all tickets for patient and Critical Care team member in Business or First Class when available. We take care of everything, unless otherwise requested.
What is a Heart Attack?
A heart attack happens when a blood clot completely obstructs a coronary artery supplying blood to the heart muscle. A heart attack can cause chest pain, heart failure, and electrical instability of the heart.
What is a STROKE?
A stroke results from impaired oxygen delivery to brain cells via the bloodstream. A stroke is also referred to as a CVA, or cerebrovascular incident. Symptoms of stroke include: sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg. Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding. Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes, sudden trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance, and/or sudden severe headache with no known cause. A TIA, or transient ischemic attack is a short-lived temporary impairment of the brain caused by loss of blood supply. Stroke is a medical emergency..
What is an electrocardiogram (ECG, EKG)?
The electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a non-invasive test that is used to reflect underlying heart conditions by measuring the electrical activity of the heart. By positioning leads (electrical sensing devices) on the body in standardized locations, information about many heart conditions can be learned by looking for characteristic patterns on the EKG..
What is CHF or Congestive Heart Failure?
Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a condition in which the heart's function as a pump to deliver oxygen rich blood to the body is inadequate to meet the body's needs. Congestive heart failure can be caused by diseases that weaken the heart muscle, diseases that cause stiffening of the heart muscles, or diseases that increase oxygen demand by the body tissue beyond the capability of the heart to deliver.
Flight Coordinator will select an aircraft that’s strategically located, notify the medical team and obtain detailed report from discharging hospital. All flights are under the supervision of the Medical Director for Air Ambulance Network.
World Class Medical Transport and Comprehensive Medical Solutions Wherever you are and whatever the medical need, Swift Air Ambulances Ltd assures you receive seamless access to the highest level of care.
• Provides air medical transport to the hospital of your choice.• Provides access to worldwide medical and second opinion referrals, consultations and prescription assistance.
• Supplies up-to-the-minute security advisories before you travel and safety assessments while you are away.
• Arranges international legal referrals.
• Worldwide medical jet transportation, bedside to bedside, to the hospital of choice
• 24/7 Logistics Centre for worldwide medical and second opinion referrals, consultations, and prescription assistance
• Foreign travel advisories and threat assessments
• Transport of mortal remains
• Legal referrals and emergency message relay