Understanding the different levels of service in medical transportation is crucial for NEMT operators looking to understand the market and present their value to healthcare facilities. These levels—Advanced Life Support (ALS), Basic Life Support (BLS), and Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) services—each have distinct capabilities, regulations, and costs.
This blog will break down these services, highlight their unique requirements, identify reasons to use each one, and provide average trip cost estimates across the U.S.
Advanced Life Support (ALS)
What is ALS?
Advanced Life Support (ALS) involves transportation by ambulance with the highest level of mobile medical care. ALS services hire trained professionals such as paramedics or EMT-Intermediates. These specialized individuals can manage advanced procedures, such as administering IV medications, manual defibrillation, intubation, and other critical interventions.
ALS is further divided into two categories based on the complexity of care provided:
- ALS1 (Advanced Life Support 1): Includes ALS assessment or interventions, such as administering lifesaving medication through IVs.
- ALS2 (Advanced Life Support 2): Adds even more intensive services, such as intubation, cardiac pacing, and administering multiple medications.
When is ALS required?
ALS transportation is necessary during emergencies or when a patient requires continuous monitoring or advanced interventions during transport.
Average Cost of ALS Trips
On average, ALS trips in the United States range between $600 to $1,200 per trip. ALS2 services can cost even more, reaching upwards of $1,500 or more depending on state regulations and the complexity of care needed.
Basic Life Support (BLS)
What is BLS?
Basic Life Support (BLS) is a step down from ALS and focuses on providing non-invasive medical care during transportation. Ambulances equipped for BLS services are staffed with EMTs capable of offering essential medical care, such as CPR, oxygen administration, and basic wound care.
When is BLS required?
BLS is generally suitable for patients who are stable but need medical monitoring or non-invasive medical assistance during transportation.
Average Cost of BLS Trips
BLS transportation typically costs between $400 and $800 per trip in the United States, depending on distance, regional pricing, and other factors.
Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)
What is NEMT?
Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) serves patients who need assistance getting to medical appointments or health services but do not require medically equipped ambulances or advanced medical care en route. Unlike ALS and BLS, NEMT services are designed to be accessible and cost-effective for routine, non-urgent transport needs.
Types of NEMT Services
- Ambulatory Transportation: For patients who can walk with minimal assistance.
- Wheelchair Transportation: For patients who use a wheelchair but do not require additional medical care during transit.
- Specialty Wheelchair Transportation: For patients who are bed-bound, but medically stable. These specialty wheelchairs like the Traversa Transport Wheelchair from Broda offer tilt, recline, and possibly other benefits such as an elevating seat, transfer-friendly features, passenger safety harnesses, and more.
- Stretcher Transportation: For non-ambulatory patients who need to recline during transit but do not require EMS-level care.
When is NEMT required?
NEMT is ideal for patients traveling to and from appointments such as dialysis, chemotherapy, physical therapy, or routine check-ups. These services are vital for patients with disabilities or those recovering from surgeries.
Average Cost of NEMT Trips
- Ambulatory trips typically cost between $30 and $60 per trip.
- Wheelchair trips average around $50 to $150 per trip, depending on distance and equipment.
- Specialty wheelchair trips average around $150 to $300 per trip, depending on your location and the capabilities of the equipment involved.
- Stretcher trips can cost $100 to $400 per trip, with higher rates for long distances.
Key Differences at a Glance
Service Level | Care Provided | Staff Requirements | Average Cost Per Trip (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|---|
ALS (Advanced Life Support) | Advanced procedures like intubation and IV medications | Paramedic or EMT-Intermediate | $600–$1,200+ |
BLS (Basic Life Support) | Basic care like CPR, oxygen, and monitoring | Two EMTs | $400–$800 |
NEMT Stretcher | Reclining transport for non-ambulatory patients | Stretcher-equipped vehicle and at least two trained staff | $100–$400 |
NEMT Specialty Wheelchair | Transport for medically stable, bed-bound passengers | One driver trained in wheelchair lifts or standard ramps and securement systems | $150–$300 |
NEMT Wheelchair | Transport for wheelchair users | One driver trained in wheelchair lifts or standard ramps and securement systems | $50–$150 |
NEMT Ambulatory | Routine transportation for walking patients | Valid driver’s license required | $30–$60 |
Building a Sustainable NEMT Business
For NEMT operators, understanding and differentiating between these levels of service can guide business development and strategic planning. Here’s how focusing on the distinctions can help your operation thrive:
- Identify Customer Needs
- Many facilities are paying for ALS or BLS services when NEMT would be sufficient – especially with the Traversa Transport Wheelchair! As an NEMT provider, identify who may be overpaying and offer tailored services that meet specific patient needs.
- Optimize Service Offerings
- Focus on the areas in demand in your region, such as wheelchair services or ambulatory trips. Offering specialized services can help you stand out in oversaturated markets.
- Cost Management
- Balancing quality and cost is essential for profitability. For instance, providing affordable wheelchair transportation as an alternative to ALS and BLS can attract a steady stream of clients.
- Value-Driven Care
- Always prioritize client comfort, safety, and accessibility in your services. Competitors may underbid with lower costs, but providing higher value creates lasting client relationships and referrals.
Choose the Right Equipment – Maximize Revenue!
By implementing a premium or specialty wheelchair transportation level of service, NEMT operators can maximize earnings. Using the Traversa Transport Wheelchair, for example, can earn operators up to $150 more per trip compared to a basic, foldable transport wheelchair.
Apart from maximizing revenue, the Traversa offers comfort and convenience that passengers and drivers love.
- No Hard Seating Surfaces – The Traversa features Broda’s pliable, immersive Comfort Tension Seating™, which molds to the passenger’s body and provides cooling airflow.
- Elevating Seat Height – Raise and lower the Traversa to the height of any bed or exam table.
- Tilt and Recline Positioning – Give every passenger the ideal travel position for the most comfortable ride.
- Adjustable for Every Body – The Traversa features an adjustable seat width, arm rests, shoulder supports, leg rests, and lap belts. Built for every size up to 450 lbs.!
Partnering for Success
Navigating the complexities of medical transportation? You don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re looking to expand your services or improve operational efficiency, understanding medical transportation levels is just the start.
At Broda, we’re committed to helping NEMT operators build successful, client-focused businesses with the Traversa Transport Wheelchair. Contact us today to learn how we can help you improve your services and thrive in a competitive industry.
Chat with a dedicated sales rep today!
