Medical Escort via Rail is a money-saving option when time is not a prevailing concern, and the patient's condition requires him/her to be lying down. Patients are accompanied by members of our medical team and travel in a sleeper car of an Amtrak train. The medical team provides assistance with medications, hygiene and other personal care issues.

• Less expensive than air ambulance or long distance ground transportation
• Dependent on Amtrak schedules and seat availability - requires 7 to 10 days advance planning.
• Patient travels in a relatively stress-free environment

Patient's Condition to Qualify for Rail Escort

• Patient is not in critical condition
• Travel time is not a primary consideration

A patient must:

• Be categorized as BLS
• Not require a ventilator or have a tracheostomy
• Not require continuous oxygen therapy
• Be able to sleep lying down or with the aid of one or two pillows
• Be able to walk short distances (10 feet) independently with a cane or walker
• Be able to withstand a two to four day trip

Ideal candidates for Medical Escort by Rail:

• Behavioral health disorders
• Neurological injuries
• Orthopedic injuries
• Minor ambulatory issues

Types of Medical Care Transports

All patients transported by Rail Escort are accompanied by two medical professionals.

Travel Details

• Patient is accompanied by a nurse or paramedic in a sleeper car
• Patient travels in comfort, lying down
• Receives ongoing medical assessment/assistance with medications, meals, hygiene, mobility, other care issues

U.S. Air Ambulance Services

• Arrange ticketing
• Pre-trip medical intake physical assessment of the patient
• Arrange ground travel to and from the rail station
• Direct assistance with airport check-in, security clearance and boarding on/off the train
• Provide all medical care, administer medications, assist with meals, hygiene, mobility, and other care issues
• Conduct post-trip medical assessment and provide verbal report to receiving facility