When should I call an ambulance, and how can I save money when I do?

An ambulance ride can be expensive, especially if the ambulance service isn’t in your health plan network. Here are some things to consider ahead of time.

Emergency checklist
Make sure it’s an emergency.
You could end up paying a lot more if your condition wasn’t an emergency. Here’s a guide to help you determine if you need to call an ambulance. If it’s not an emergency, have someone drive you.

Make an emergency checklist.

For a true emergency, call 911.

Check your health plan network to make a list of the closest in-network hospitals and urgent care centers. Note the hours urgent care is available.

Make a plan for non-emergency transport, such as neighbors, taxis, or ride-share apps. Don’t use them for an emergency or a contagious illness.

Keep your emergency list where anyone in your family can find it. Here’s an example (PDF).

See if the ambulance is in your network.

If you’re using an ambulance to go from one hospital to another, ask in advance if the service is in your network. If it’s not, ask for one that is. Most ambulance services are out of network, and the charge is usually based on how far they take you.

Be prepared to appeal.

You can file an appeal with the ambulance company if your bill seems too high or improper. If you’re still not satisfied, you can file a complaint with TDI.

Be wary with air ambulances.

Use an air ambulance only when necessary. If possible, make sure the service is in-network first. If you have Medicare, it covers medically necessary air ambulance rides. If you have a Medicare supplement policy, you probably don’t need the kind of separate discount plan sold by some air ambulance providers. You can also file an appeal with the air ambulance company if you don’t think the bill is correct.