Critical care transport (CCT) is the movement of critically ill patients from a facility where their needs exceed available resources to a facility that can meet those needs, while maintaining a specialized, ICU-level standard of care throughout the trip. Patriot Ambulance provides critical care transport for inter-facility transfers that require this higher level of monitoring and intervention.
What Is Critical Care Transport?
Critical care transport is a specialty within emergency medical services focused on inter-facility transfers, moving patients whose condition requires continuous advanced monitoring and treatment, most often between hospitals when a patient needs a higher level of care than their current facility can provide. It is distinct from routine Advanced Life Support (ALS) transport in the intensity and continuity of care required during transit.
When Critical Care Transport Is Needed
Critical care transport is appropriate for patients being transferred between facilities who require ongoing critical care interventions during the ride, such as advanced airway management, continuous medication infusions, or specialized monitoring. If a patient’s needs are less intensive, our Advanced Life Support service may be the appropriate level of care instead. For patients with bariatric needs during a critical transfer, see bariatric transportation.
About Patriot Ambulance
Founded in 2003, Patriot Ambulance is one of the larger medical transportation employers in the area, with a team of more than 120 staff members including paramedics trained to support inter-facility transfers. Every vehicle is GPS-monitored through our Traumasoft dispatch system. Learn more on our About Us page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between critical care transport and ALS transport?
ALS transport covers paramedic-level emergency care. Critical care transport is for inter-facility transfers of patients who need continuous, ICU-level monitoring and intervention throughout the ride, a higher level of continuity than standard ALS.
Who staffs critical care transports?
Critical care transports are staffed by paramedics trained for inter-facility transfer of critically ill patients.
Is critical care transport covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on the patient’s insurance plan and the medical necessity of the transfer. Contact our team to discuss your specific situation before scheduling.