Air Ambulance Insurance & Coverage Information
Understanding Air Ambulance Insurance Coverage
In the event an accident, heart attack, stroke, or other major medical emergencies, every second counts. Air ambulances, or medevac services, provide rapid transport to medical facilities. some health insurance plans may cover this service, gaps in coverage can to significant out-of-pocket expenses for patients.
Here’s what you need to know about air ambulances, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)
What is an Air Ambulance?
When ground ambulances are unable to reach a patient quickly enough, air ambulances are deployed.
These aircraft are typically equipped with advanced medical technology and staffed by paramedics, emergency medical technicians, doctors and nurses
Air ambulances are frequently used for patients with severe injuries, pregnancy complications, heart attacks, strokes, and respiratory issues.
The Association of Air Medical Services estimates that over 550,000 in the U.S. rely on air ambulances each year, but the service can be costly and may not be fully covered by your health plan.
How Much Does an Air Ambulance Cost?
The average air ambulance flight covers about 52 miles and ranges from $12,000 to $25,000. This high cost is attributed to the aircraft's initial purchase price, which can exceed $6 million, along with the expenses for medical equipment, maintenance and the availability of specialized medical personnel and pilots.
The total cost can also vary based on the medical condition's severity the type of medical staff required on board. If a medical emergency occurs while abroad, expenses for evacuation back to the U.S. can escalate into six figures.
Why is Understanding Air Ambulance Insurance Important?
In a medical emergency, timing is critical, and patients often cannot negotiate costs or refuse transport when urgent care is needed. Many insurance companies cover only what they think is reasonable for air ambulance services, which can sometimes lead to disputes over costs between the air ambulance provider and the insurer.
Consequently, any remaining balance, potentially amounting to thousand of dollars, might be the patient responsibility.
Medicare may cover air ambulance services if immediate transport is necessary, but it typically only covers transport to the nearest facility and does not extend to international medical care.
What Does Air Ambulance Insurance Cover?
We will guide you to understand the specifics of your policy, verify benefits and organize the air ambulance flight ASAP
Generally, air ambulance insurance covers medical care during transport, such as oxygen or advanced life support. Some plans include "bedside to bedside" service, covering transportation to and from the aircraft, as well as costs for family members accompanying the patient.
Be mindful that coverage may be limited on proximity to an airstrip or airport, and some policies may restrict coverage to certain aircraft types depending on the medical emergency.
What You Do to Protect Yourself?
It's essential to consider air ambulance coverage before a emergency arises. Review your health insurance policy or speak with your agent to determine your current air ambulance coverage If you need more protection, subscribe to our air ambulance membership for additional air ambulance coverage options.
Medicaid health plans do not cover outside the United States
