Questions to Ask Potential Medical Shipping Services

Medical shipping services play an essential role across the healthcare enterprise. This expanding, multi-billion dollar industry quickly answers to satisfy the specialized needs of today’s pathology clinics, with no indications of slowing down. A recent Market Analysis Report indicates that the favor of medical couriers is influenced by intensity to enhance the healthcare system by simplifying the expanding need for rapid transportation of specimens and samples for testing while lowering the cost of logistics. As the appetite for a quick turnaround time on lab results increases, you require a courier service you can depend on.

A quality medical shipping service is acquainted with the laws and customs of all the products they haul. So they’ll be able to manage the legal issues for you, providing you more time to concentrate on your business. A medical shipping service should also have the required equipment to keep medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, and samples safe. Whether involving a refrigerated automobile or just mindful watching, they guarantee that every parcel arrives unharmed. Elements like experience, property security, and tracking implements are critical. If you are moving toward a medical delivery service, here are four questions to ask.

Are your delivery drivers HIPAA compliant?

Shipping services are critical to patient care, but they are not a component of the health care sector. However, delivery companies still need to follow HIPAA regulations under the omnibus rule that mandates HIPAA privacy rule compliance by business associates or entities employed by people and companies in the healthcare industry that allow them to complete industry-related actions and operations. Larger shipping companies are fast to promote their HIPAA compliance, but if you choose to utilize a local service, ask about it.

How do you track deliveries?

A study from the University of Minnesota Medical Center laboratory discovered their facility could not account for between six to seven samples per week on average, totaling around 30 samples each month. Unfortunately, that error rate isn’t permissible if you want to operate a successful pathology practice.

Every patient specimen matters. This isn’t just a sample—it’s your patient’s peace of mind. You should work with a shipper who shares your dedication to protecting your packages. Most delivery services offer a real-time GPS tracking strategy to watch their deliveries. This feature allows you to check real-time areas to guarantee that your packages are moving in the proper direction and will come when you anticipate them.

Do you have experience handling specimens and other sensitive materials?

Medical carriers should be experienced with the intricacies of medical gear and biological specimens and understand the unique conditions demanded for successful delivery. Medical shipping services must maintain numerous specialty pharmaceuticals and medical tests within a precise temperature range during shipment. Keeping those commodities at the recommended temperature demands special handling and storage during transportation from the shipper to the receiver.

Be certain to ask how many years of background the shipping company has in healthcare. Studies indicate over 30 percent of medical couriers only operate in the industry for a year or two before moving on to something different. In addition, ask if the company mandates that drivers complete detailed training to guarantee they comprehend the unique requirements for transporting samples.

Are you insured?

As the expression goes, always expect the unexpected. In unpredictable weather conditions or substantial delays, even an accident, it’s essential that your treasured cargo is safeguarded. Be sure to confirm whether or not the freight and the driver are both insured.

Ask these questions before hiring medical shipping services. And call us if you need a reliable medical transportation provider.