While that would seem reasonable, in practical utility it’s not always the case.

How Decisions Are Made

Where an ambulance crew ultimately takes you depends on the system used.

The determination is sometimes made automatically the moment youcall 911.

Paramedics lifting a patient from an ambulance

Zero Creatives / Getty Images

In other cases, you may be routed by a coordinator tasked with distributing patients evenly between regional hospitals.

Paramedics have a certain pull when making decisions.

The systems used can vary considerably among states and even counties.

In other states, you may only be advised of your destination as you leave.

This is not to suggest you have no say in the matter.

Other systems may require a patient to be flown by helicopter to a designated specialty center.

Transportation will be coordinated through a disaster control facility.

It is illegal for the ambulance crew to ask you about yourinsurance status.

But the simplest choice is not always the best choice.

California Department of Managed Health.Emergency and urgent care.

2018;11(6):e004512.

doi:10.1161/CIRCOUTCOMES.117.004512

Casimir G.Why children’s hospitals are unique and so essential.Front Pediatr.