What does a patient transport service do exactly?
Us: ‘Umm…transport patients?’
Yes, but why? And what else do you do?
It may seem like a very simple concept; a patient transport service transports patients between locations. The patient gets in the ambulance, we drive and then the patient gets out. However, that is a very simple definition, when in fact it’s a lot more complex. So let’s start with the ‘What’ and ‘Why’ before we move on to the ‘What else’.
What does a patient transport service do?
Yes. Health Connections Patient Transport Service moves patients from location to location, or service to service, or location to service, or service to location! You get the idea. But it doesn’t end there. We provide person-centred, individualised care, at every step of the way. Each journey is accompanied by an experienced, highly-trained member of our team. And we treat each client with the same, dignity, respect and understanding that we would want for a family member or friend.
Why?
Sometimes, people who are struggling with their mental health become very unwell and they need extra support. This support may be provided by a specialised service or a hospital. If that person needs to be transported from their own home, or from a general hospital, this is where we can help. Often general ambulance services are already over-stretched. They are too busy dealing with physical health emergencies and therefore there can be delays. However, we don’t deal with physical health emergencies, so we are available for those with mental health conditions who need assistance quickly.
What else?
Should there be a need, we can provide secure transport and are very experienced at managing risk. However, we always work to the least restrictive practice, ensuring the well-being of the client is at the forefront of our care. Of course, we are always very happy to discuss this element of care, to provide reassurance to client and their family.