Transportation to the doctor?

LongBee2021

It is getting harder and harder to get my dad out of the house. I had to cancel his last appointment because - long story short - I couldn't get him to cooperate. He won't get up to walk, he won't speak to us, he stiffens his body so we can't pick him up, he will force his feet into the ground so we can't push his wheel chair. I have to somehow force him into a vehicle so he can get to the doctor. Obviously I will ask his doctor what options we have as well. Is anyone out there aware of how I can transport him to the doctor? An ambulance service or something like that?

harshedbuzz

We used a medical transport service when dad went into MC. I think the brawny young man sent from the transport company kind of intimidated dad into best behavior. It's fairly costly- well over $100 here for a trip to the urologist which couldn't be avoided or handled by his PCP or by virtual appointment.

M1

LongBee if you're at that point, I would ask about Hospice evaluation and/or whether there's a palliative care practice in your area that will make home visits.  These have proliferated over the last few years, might save you some trouble.

Cynbar

I agree with M1, ask for a hospice evaluation. You don't lose anything by taking this step, and it would be a big help and support for you if he is accepted. Hospice patients usually don't go to the doctor anymore (although it is not prohibited.) The patient's RN case manager has more authority, keeps in touch with the doctors who order any treatments needed for comfort which can be done at home.

JJAz

When it became difficult for my 97 year old Dad to leave the house, he was enrolled in palliative care and the Nurse Practitioner came to the house.  It's basically the step before hospice and is covered by part B Medicare, not Part A like Hospice.