FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I arrange for non-emergency ambulance transportation? Do I need to call in advance?
Please call our 24-hour dispatching center at 1-800-872-1111. If you are at home and need non-emergency transport to the emergency department we will dispatch an ambulance immediately. If you or a loved one is in a hospital or nursing facility, you do not need to call in advance but we encourage it. Calling in advance allows us to arrive on time, as promised.
If the individual needing transport is in a hospital or nursing facility, ask the nurse or discharge planner to make the arrangements. The facility may not normally use HVA but you have the right to request our service specifically. Provide the nurse or discharge planner with our toll-free number (1-800-872-1111). HVA is licensed to provide non-emergency ambulance service in Washtenaw, Wayne, Oakland, Livingston, Jackson, Calhoun, Monroe and Lenawee counties. We are also able to bring a patient back to our local area from out-of-area/out-of-state hospitals in certain circumstances. Call us for more information.
What hospital will you take me to?
We can normally transport you to the hospital of your choice which is in or near your county. The only exception to this is if you are in unstable or critical condition, you must be transported to the closest appropriate facility which can treat your medical condition. If this is not your hospital of choice, you may be able to be re-transferred after your condition is stabilized. HVA is not owned by any hospital.
How much does an ambulance transport cost?
It depends on whether the call is an emergency, a non-emergency, or a prescheduled patient transfer. It also depends if basic or advanced life support procedures are applied. Like all other ambulance services, HVA charges a base rate, a mileage charge (per loaded mile), and an oxygen fee. A typical emergency transport with paramedic assessment or advanced life support is about $700. A typical pre-scheduled non-emergency transfer is about $450.
Do I need to pay in advance?
No. The EMT or paramedic will get your insurance information after arrival at the hospital and you will be billed later. Most people have insurance and we bill your insurance provider first, if we have that information. If you have out-of-pocket costs, you will be billed after your insurance plan lets us know that.
What insurance does HVA accept?
HVA is a participating provider with Medicare, Medicaid, Blue Cross Blue Shield and a number of other insurance providers. Auto insurance also covers ambulance transport in full. HVA is also the contracted ambulance provider for the Veteran's Administration.
If you do not have health insurance or if you are "under-insured", you have two other options:
- HVAPlus!. This is HVA's membership subscription program which allows you to support your community ambulance service and receive no out-of-pocket costs in case you are transported. Click here for more information.
- Charity Care Policy. HVA provides discounted or free ambulance transportation to patients where the family income level is less than 300% of federal poverty guidelines. If you feel that you qualify, please contact our business office at 1-800-507-7847 for further information.
When I call 9-1-1 for an ambulance, why do you also send the fire department?
HVA and your community fire department work as a team to provide emergency medical services to you. There are many more fire stations in the community than ambulance stations, and in emergency situation time is of the essence. Locally based fire fighters are trained to provide lifesaving interventions, including cardiac defibrillation. Together, HVA and your fire department work hard to provide you with rapid and effective emergency response.