Ambulances are a crucial aspect of modern medicine. They allow people to quickly get the medical treatment they require, no matter where they are. If you have never ridden in an ambulance before, you may not know what to expect. Here are four facts about ambulance service that will help you feel calm and confident about ambulance transport:

1. Your loved ones will not be able to ride with you

In most cases, an ambulance is the fastest way to get to the hospital, which is important when you're facing critical injuries. Your loved ones will not be able to ride in the ambulance with you because the paramedics need ample room to work. If your condition begins to deteriorate, they may need to act quickly to get you stable again. Your loved ones can meet you at the hospital by following in their own car.

2. You should bring your ID and health insurance card with you, if possible

Most health insurance plans cover ambulance transport. This coverage may be full, as in the case of Medicaid, or partial. If at all possible, make sure you have your health insurance card and identification with you when accepting ambulance transport. This may not be an option if you're experiencing a life-threatening emergency. However, if you have the opportunity to bring these cards with you, it can save you time in the future, as the hospital will be able to send the bill directly to your insurance company. Ensure your ID and health insurance cards are always in easy reach by keeping them in your wallet.

3. You will receive first aid and pain management

Ambulances are staffed by emergency medical technicians that are trained to perform life-saving procedures. The paramedics' job is to stabilize you so you can be safely moved to the hospital. If you are severely injured, paramedics will provide necessary first aid en route to the hospital. You may be given drugs for pain management, in addition to any other medication the EMTs deem necessary. Paramedics are trained to monitor patients and keep them safe until emergency room doctors can take over.

4. You will need to give your consent for ambulance transport

You have the ability to decline ambulance transport if you desire, even if you or someone else has called the ambulance to your location. Ambulance transport is not compulsory. You'll need to consent to transportation and treatment before the paramedics will transport you to the hospital. 

If you need an ambulance service in the future, remember these steps. Be prepared physically and mentally.