Repatriation vs. Medical Repatriation: What’s the Difference?
In recent years, the term ‘repatriation’ has surfaced in the media in connection with major travel disruptions, such as the collapse of the travel company Thomas Cook. Thousands of travellers found themselves stranded abroad, awaiting assistance to return home. However, repatriation is not limited to logistical travel emergencies. A significant portion of repatriations involve medical circumstances, in which case we refer to ‘medical repatriation’. EMS Air Ambulance & Medical Repatriation Ltd. specialises in exactly this kind of service.
What is medical repatriation?
Medical repatriation refers to the process of transporting a patient back to their home country under the supervision of qualified medical personnel. This can be necessary when someone falls seriously ill or sustains an injury abroad. For example, patients may require medical repatriation from destinations such as the Canary Islands or Spain. EMS Air Ambulance & Medical Repatriation Ltd. coordinates the entire process, ensuring patient safety and continuity of care throughout the journey.
Medical repatriation is often arranged by insurance providers, but it can also be organised privately. EMS Air Ambulance & Medical Repatriation Ltd. works independently of insurers, meaning individuals can contact the company directly to request assistance.
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How does medical repatriation work?
The process begins with an in-depth medical assessment, performed by EMS Air Ambulance & Medical Repatriation Ltd.'s medical coordination team. This team determines the safest and most appropriate transport method, based on the patient's condition and location. Available options include:
- Road Ambulance: For shorter distances, using a specially equipped long-distance ambulance.
- Air Ambulance: A dedicated aircraft equipped as a flying intensive care unit, ideal for urgent or long-distance transfers.
- Medical Escort on Commercial Flight: A cost-effective option for stable patients, accompanied by a nurse or doctor.
Once the mode of transport is decided, EMS Air Ambulance & Medical Repatriation Ltd. takes full control of the logistics. Their bed-to-bed service includes:
- Coordination with hospitals and medical staff at both ends
- Management of medical records and translations
- Flight and ground transport arrangements
- Customs clearance and travel documentation
- Ensuring a hospital bed is ready upon arrival
The EMS team only leaves once a successful patient handover has been completed at the destination hospital.
How to Arrange Medical Repatriation?
Whether you are an individual, family member, or healthcare provider, you can contact EMS Air Ambulance & Medical Repatriation Ltd. directly. You can use the website to request a free quote, and one of our operators will get in contact with you, or you can call us directly. After an initial consultation to understand the situation, their medical experts carry out an independent case assessment. Based on this, you will receive a tailored quote, typically within 30 minutes.
Once confirmed, EMS Air Ambulance & Medical Repatriation Ltd. moves quickly to coordinate the mission. In many cases, they can deploy on the same day. A team of experienced medical professionals – including doctors, nurses, or paramedics – with relevant specialisations is assigned to ensure patient safety throughout the journey.
Client Feedback
Clients consistently praise EMS Air Ambulance & Medical Repatriation Ltd. for their compassion, professionalism, and efficiency. One client shared: “From the first phone call, we felt reassured. The team handled everything with such care and attention. My father was safely home within 24 hours.”
Contact
If you would like any further information or would just like to chat through your situation and the medical repatriation process with someone to get a clearer picture of what’s involved and what your options are, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are always happy to help. You can also request a free quote.
