It is already a known fact that fossil fuels are fast running out. Because of this, it is just logical that their prices shoot up. But at the rate in which fuel prices are skyrocketing, many industries are being detrimentally affected. For instance, the emergency and non-emergency medical transport industries are taking the toll heavily. In some cases, fuel expenses for companies increase to more than 13%. Some even project that the figures can reach 30%. That translates to hundreds of thousands of dollars. The phenomenon is world wide. Every country and medically allied company feels the sting of this economic blow. Above all, it is the consumers that are caught between the fuel price increase and the interventions that companies have to take. Here’s the difference between the emergency and non-emergency medical transport service with other delivery and transport industry – they are not delivering merely parcels and packages! These specialized service providers transport people with medical and physical conditions and should be treated as such. Unfortunately, the reality is that regardless of what is being transported, it uses the same fossil fuel that is running out. Interventions being done Because of this marked increase in operational cost, some companies are looking into different tactics to mitigate the blow. Though this can help reduce the cost of the companies, it is by no means a full proof plan to ensure excellent customer service to client. Group rides Think of this as a car pool in the emergency and non- emergency medical transport service. As odd as it may sound, many companies are now resorting to multiple pick ups or shared rides to help them lower their fuel costs. At first glance, this can be a great strategy as it can help clients bond with one another. Furthermore, people going to the same place can share a ride. Consequently, people may even find this as a favorable course of action. However, there are times when privacy during the trip is important. Similarly, there are certain medical conditions where sharing the vehicle with another is not recommended to say the least. Increased waiting time Another cost cutting strategy of companies is to limit the number of vehicles on the road. Surely, this can improve their fuel expenses but it has its dire consequences. The hardest hit in this tactic is the patients. Although a client has requested for an NEMT service, he/she has to wait until the transport vehicle has accomplished its prior client. Surely you don’t want to wait when you are the patient. But the reality is because of the fuel price hike, clients will have to wait their turn. Quick pick up and drop off Companies also resort to quick pick ups and drop offs. This may sound efficient and well advised. But what lacks in this type of service is the personal touch and attention that clients want. A huge percentage of the medically allied transport service – especially in the NEMT industry is people in their senior years. They require subtle handling and more care during the trip. Conversion of ambulance to cabulance The cost of an ambulance can be as high as $900 per trip. With the high cost of fuel, there is no way around the need to increase ambulance service rates. Again, it is the clients who have to shoulder the burden of this increase. On the other hand, some ambulance companies simply opt to convert their vehicles to cabulance. This way, rates are more affordable. But the drawback is less emergency medical vehicles for the patients. Weighing the options Above all, this is a business. As such any customer oriented business has to draw the line between providing what is best for the clients and company survival. Because of this predicament, many companies are stuck between a rock and a hard place. From February 2011 to May 1, 2011, a notably high increase in the prices of fuel was recorded. The average fuel price during the start of February 2011 was at $3.09 per gallon. However, by the start of May, 2011, the average price is already at $3.39 per gallon. The trend can only get worse since the total fuel around the world is fast being depleted. On the other hand, service providers must contend with the demands of the clients for a better transport service. Unlike other transport and rental services, this is a very specific niche with particular requirements. Truly, companies in this industry are taking the beating because of the fuel price increase. A sustainable solution to this problem must be sought after in the national and local levels. More than just the survival of the industry, it is about providing patients a feasible solution for their specific transportation needs.
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