Repatriation costs

Factors influencing repatriation costs

#1 Medical condition of the patient

• Level of care required: Patients needing intensive medical care or specialised equipment during transport will incur higher costs.
• Medical personnel: The need for medical professionals, such as doctors, nurses, or paramedics, to accompany the patient can also impact the cost.

#2 Distance and destination

• Geographical distance: The further the patient needs to be transported, the higher the travel costs. We take into account the distance to be covered from the patient’s current location to their preferred destination. 
• Destination country: Costs can vary depending on the regulations, medical facilities, and services available in the destination country. But the distance also indicates the number of flight crew required to ensure safe non-stop travel.

#3 Mode of transport

• Air Ambulance: This is generally the most expensive option due to the specialised aircraft, medical equipment, and crew involved.
• Ground Ambulance: Typically less expensive than air transport but may take longer and be less feasible for long distances.
• Commercial Flights: Using a commercial airline with medical escort can be a cost-effective option for patients who are stable and able to travel with some assistance.

#4 Logistical arrangements

• Medical clearance and coordination: Organising medical clearances, coordinating with healthcare providers, and arranging necessary documentation can add to the overall cost.
• Accommodation and transfers: Costs related to ground transfers, interim accommodations, and other logistical needs during the journey.

#5 Insurance and coverage

• Insurance policies: The extent of coverage provided by health insurance or travel insurance policies can significantly influence out-of-pocket expenses.
• Pre-existing conditions: Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions may vary, affecting the total cost borne by the patient or family.

Urgency is also a very important factor for how much a repatriation will cost. Medical repatriations are rarely planned far in advance and often require a quick turn around. This can have an effect on pricing as same-day departures and other last minute bookings can sometimes carry additional charges. 

Costs for different kinds of repatriation

As stated above, the mode of transport is an important factor for how much your repatriation will cost. An Air Ambulance is the most expensive option, due to the specialised aircraft, medical equipment, and crew involved. Check out a specification of the costs for an Air Ambulance here. Using a commercial airline with Medical Escort can be a cost-effective option for patients who are stable and able to travel with some assistance.
 

Then you have our Road Ambulances. The duration of the trip is longer than air transport. But sometimes the only possibility in your situation. You can check out an estimation of the costs of a Road Ambulance here.

Determine how much a repatriation will cost for you

In order to get a good idea of what your repatriation costs will be, and to help you think through your options, it’s best to request a free quote. That way we will be able to give you a fixed quote and you will have accurate information to base your decisions on. All our quotes are fixed prices - there will be no surprises - and are entirely free of obligation.  

Unless otherwise stated, they cover the entire repatriation process, including (if applicable) airport transfers, ferry crossing, toll fees, food, drinks, medicine and care. 

We always aim to reply to a request within an hour. For any further questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch by email, phone or chat. We are here to help.