What would you do in a situation where you are critically injured in an accident but the nearest hospital is miles away?
Thankfully, with more access to medical evacuations via helicopter and emergency transport, you could get the medical treatment you need. But how much does it cost?
While access to these services becomes more available, Medicare has worked to cover the cost of these services to make it more affordable for beneficiaries.
In this article, the costs and benefits of emergency medical transport will be outlined so you can have a better idea of what it will cost.
How is this coverage billed?
Under Medicare, Medicare Part A and Part B will cover any medical costs.
Medicare Part B covers emergency ambulance services. Since this is considered a medical expense, it will be subject to a deductible and 20% co-insurance.
However, if you have a Medicare Advantage plan or a Medicare supplement plan, you would be able to get this covered at little to no cost.
Usually, these costs are covered in an emergency but can be higher if it is a nonemergent case
Additionally, the costs of transportation to a skilled nursing facility will be covered under Medicare through Medicare Part A
On a Medicare Advantage plan, this cost is a set copay. It will cost you the same regardless of the kind of emergency you are experiencing.
Similarly, on a Medicare supplement plan, these costs will be fully covered after you pay your Medicare Part B deductible of $240 (2024).
Other transportation costs
When it comes to emergency transportation, a ground ambulance is the most common. However, air ambulance is also covered on Medicare.
On Medicare, Part B will cover this cost since it is an emergency as long as it is medically necessary. The billing will be the same–the deductible or a copay. Costs could potentially be higher on Medicare Advantage plans due to the out-of-pocket spending limits.
Overall, this coverage is built into medicare plans and can give you peace of mind in the case of an emergency. Costs may be higher depending on the Medicare plan you choose, so it is important to work with a broker to ensure you do not have extra expenses.