If you or a loved one needs to fly but requires special medical assistance during travel, hiring a medical escort can provide extra support. A medical escort is a trained professional who can help with medications, mobility assistance, and any medical needs during a flight and airport transfers.
Choosing the right medical escort is crucial to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. Here are some of the most important questions to ask potential providers before booking:
Are you trained and certified?
A competent medical escort should have training in first aid, CPR, and dealing with medical emergencies. They may be a nurse, paramedic, EMT, or have other medical credentials. Ask about their certifications and training to handle any potential in-flight medical situations.
Are you experienced assisting passengers with [medical condition]?
Find an escort familiar with the specific medical needs of the passenger. If you are flying with a senior who needs mobility assistance, or a child with autism, make sure to find an escort experienced with those particular needs.
Do you have experience as a medical escort on commercial flights?
While any medical background is helpful, the best escorts will have experience actually flying and transporting passengers with health needs. Ask how many prior flight escort assignments they have completed. Preferably they will have helped dozens of passengers with travel accommodations and in-flight care.
Find an escort who can accompany you on the dates of travel you require. Inquire about their availability on your scheduled departure and return dates. They should confirm they are open on those exact dates before booking.
What airports do you cover?
Some escorts may only serve certain regional airports. Make sure to find one who regularly works out of the specific airports you will be using for departure and arrival. They should be very familiar with navigating those airports alongside passengers with disabilities.
Do you stay with the passenger from check-in until the flight destination is reached?
The escort should be with you continuously from check-in at the originating airport until you reach the destination airport. Verify they will be present at all times in case any medical care is needed throughout the airport transfer process.
What type of assistance can you provide during the flight and layovers?
Clarify exactly what services and assistance the escort will provide on the plane and during any layovers. This may include medication management, helping to the bathroom, arranging wheelchair assistance, and providing any medical care necessary in-flight.
Do you have liability insurance coverage?
The escort should carry liability insurance in case of any accident or injury during the trip. Ask to see proof of up-to-date insurance that would cover your flight.
What is your cancellation and refund policy?
Understand the escort's policies around cancellations, changes, and refunds well in advance. This can help avoid losing money if your travel plans change.
Do you have any videos about your service that I could view?
Quality escorts will have helpful videos online demonstrating their services, such as assisting travelers through airports and on planes. Watching these can help give you peace of mind about their capabilities before hiring.
What is your total fee for the flight and services required?
Get clear, upfront pricing in writing for the complete travel duration. Track any extra fees for additional hours or services. Compare costs between providers before selecting the best value.
Can you provide references from past clients?
An experienced escort should be able to furnish references from passengers they've previously assisted. Speaking to past clients can provide validation the escort is qualified, professional and provides excellent in-flight care.
Asking the right questions upfront ensures you select a capable, qualified escort service that addresses your specific needs. Doing thorough research helps avoid issues and gives confidence for a smooth, stress-free flight to your destination.
