Private Ambulance Service Cost: What You Need to Know
When you or a loved one needs medical transport, especially in urgent or planned non-emergency situations, understanding the private ambulance service cost can help you make an informed decision.
At MET Medical, we’re committed to providing transparent, compassionate, and professional care across all our services – including private ambulance transport. Here’s what you need to know about how costs are calculated and what to expect.
What Is a Private Ambulance Service?
A private ambulance service offers medical transport that’s outside of the NHS system. This can include:
Non-emergency patient transfers between hospitals or homes
Long-distance journeys, such as repatriation from abroad
Transport to medical appointments when NHS services are unavailable or delayed
Event medical cover
Urgent care at home
Emergency 999 vehicles for the NHS
Private ambulance services are used by individuals, families, care homes, insurance companies, and even the NHS during times of high demand.
How Much Does a Private Ambulance Service Cost?
The cost of a private ambulance service in the UK typically depends on several factors:
1. Type of Ambulance Required
Patient Transport Ambulance (PTS): For stable, non-emergency transfers with basic clinical support.
Emergency Ambulance: With full blue-light capability and a paramedic-led crew for urgent or critical transfers.
Specialist or Bariatric Vehicles: For patients with complex needs or additional equipment.
2. Distance Travelled
Costs are generally calculated based on mileage and the time it takes to complete the journey. Long-distance journeys across the UK or international repatriation are priced differently from local transfers.
3. Crew Skill Level
The level of clinical care needed affects pricing. For example:
Patient transport drivers or ambulance care assistants: Patient transport drivers hold first aid qualifications which usually includes use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
Emergency Care Assistants (ECAs) Trained to assist a Technician or Paramedic and drive under emergency conditions, may also work as part of a larger team at an event.
Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) Found as the lead on some ‘999’ ambulances. Able to administer a limited group of life-saving medications.
Paramedics - Registered healthcare professionals able to provide a range of treatments and medication, can also specialist in urgent or critical care, may also be qualified as an independent prescriber
Advanced Clinical Practitioners - Paramedics or other healthcare professionals who have completed an approved Masters’ degree in Advanced Practice- able to practice autonomously, managing complex cases.
4. Time of Day
Evening, weekend, or urgent same-day bookings may include a premium.
5. Additional Equipment or Services
Services like oxygen therapy, patient monitoring, stretcher access, or wheelchair support can impact the final cost.
Typical Private Ambulance Costs
While prices can vary, here’s a general guide:
Local non-emergency transport : from £300-£750+
Long-distance transfers: £600-£1800+
Urgent paramedic-led transport: from £500+ depending on clinical needs
Repatriation (UK or Europe): individually quoted based on location and medical support required
For a tailored, no-obligation quote, our team is happy to help you 24/7.
📞 Call us or email bookings@met-medical.co.uk
Why Choose Met Medical?
At MET Medical, we combine clinical excellence with a kind, respectful, and patient-focused approach. Our private ambulance services are:
CQC-registered and fully compliant with UK healthcare regulations
Staffed by experienced, professional clinicians and care teams
Available across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Essex, Surrey, London, and the wider UK – including international services
Transparent, fairly priced, and always focused on the patient’s best interest
We know that arranging a private ambulance – especially in a moment of need – can feel overwhelming. That’s why we keep the process clear, simple, and supportive from your first call to final handover.
Get a Private Ambulance Quote Today
Whether it’s a family member, hospital discharge, or urgent care at home, Met Medical is here to help.
🔍 Looking for “private ambulance service cost”? Get an accurate, personalised quote today from a team that truly cares.