Requesting an ambulance transport in Florida means answering one key question: what level of care does the patient need en route? Get it right and the transfer is smooth and appropriately staffed; get it wrong and the trip may be delayed — or the patient may travel with less monitoring than their condition requires. Here is how the three levels break down.
Basic Life Support (BLS)
BLS transport is for medically stable patients who need a stretcher, basic monitoring, or supplemental oxygen — but no advanced interventions. Two state-certified EMTs staff every BLS unit. Typical BLS trips: hospital discharges home, transfers to skilled nursing or rehab, dialysis runs, and outpatient appointments for bed-confined patients.
Advanced Life Support (ALS)
ALS transport adds a state-licensed paramedic to the crew and brings advanced capabilities on board: continuous ECG monitoring, IV access and medication administration, and advanced airway management. Choose ALS when the patient has an active cardiac condition, needs IV medications or fluids during transport, or requires paramedic-level assessment between facilities.
Critical Care Transport (CCT)
CCT is a mobile ICU. It’s built for high-acuity or unstable patients moving between intensive care units — patients on ventilators, titrated critical-care infusions, or complex monitoring that must continue without interruption. CCT crews maintain those interventions from the sending ICU’s bedside to the receiving team’s.
A quick decision guide
- Stable, needs a stretcher or oxygen: BLS
- Needs cardiac monitoring, IVs, or paramedic assessment: ALS
- Ventilator, ICU drips, or unstable condition: CCT
- Life-threatening emergency right now: call 911
Not sure? Tell our dispatchers about the patient’s condition, equipment, and medications when you call (239) 228-7900 — they’ll help you select the appropriate level and can consult with our clinical team for borderline cases. All three levels are available 24/7 across Collier and Lee counties.