Ambulance Chasing: The Price of a Speedy Ride in Chicago
So, you've had a little tumble, a minor mishap, or maybe you just really, really hate walking. You're thinking, "I need a ride, and I need it now." Enter the ambulance. But hold your horses! Before you dial 911 and start planning your Netflix binge in the back of a white van, let's talk about the price tag on this speedy service. Because let's face it, nothing in Chicago is cheap, except for the deep-dish pizza jokes.
Ambulance: Your Personal Taxi (But Way More Expensive)
You'd think an ambulance is just a glorified taxi with flashing lights and the ability to administer CPR. Wrong-o! It’s like comparing a Smart Car to a Hummer. Sure, they both get you from A to B, but one is going to cost you a small fortune.
Basic Life Support (BLS): This is like the economy class of ambulance rides. You get the basics: oxygen, monitoring, and a friendly paramedic to hold your hand. But don't expect any fancy medical procedures. Think of it as a ride-sharing service for the unwell.
Advanced Life Support (ALS): Now we're talking first class! You get all the bells and whistles: medication, IVs, and the ability to shock you back to life if necessary. It's like having a mini-hospital on wheels. But guess what? This luxury comes with a hefty price tag.
The Fine Print: Mileage Matters
You might think the cost is just a flat fee, but think again. In Chicago, every mile you travel in an ambulance is like adding a dollar to your tab. So, if you live in the suburbs and need to get to downtown, be prepared to open your wallet wide.
How Much Does It Really Cost?
Let's cut to the chase. The average cost of a BLS ambulance ride in Chicago is around $2,946. For ALS, it's a whopping $3,227. And that's before they start charging you per mile. So, unless you're feeling particularly flush, you might want to reconsider that ambulance ride for a minor sprain.
Tip: If you have health insurance, it might cover some or all of the cost. But don’t count on it. Always check with your insurance provider before hopping in.
How to... Ambulance Edition
- How to avoid an ambulance bill: Stay healthy, wear a helmet, and avoid jaywalking.
- How to prepare for an ambulance ride: Have your insurance information handy and try to stay calm.
- How to understand your ambulance bill: Break out your calculator and prepare to be shocked.
- How to negotiate an ambulance bill: Good luck with that.
- How to find cheaper alternatives to an ambulance: Call a taxi, use public transportation, or ask a friend for a ride.
So, the next time you're tempted to call an ambulance for a paper cut, remember: it might be faster, but it's definitely not cheaper.
