Nursing Escort & International Patient Travel Policy

Overview

Al Fadhl Home Health Care Center provides professional nursing escort services for patients who require medical support while traveling outside the United Arab Emirates. This policy explains how such services are arranged, the responsibilities of all parties, and the standards we follow to ensure safety, quality of care, and regulatory compliance.

1. Our Commitment

We are committed to delivering safe, ethical, and well-regulated nursing escort services. All international patient travel supported by our nursing staff is conducted in accordance with SEHA and DHA regulations, UAE healthcare laws, and internationally accepted patient safety standards.

2. Purpose of This Policy

This policy is designed to:

  • Ensure continuity of care during international travel
  • Protect patient safety, dignity, and privacy
  • Clearly define financial, legal, and operational responsibilities
  • Safeguard nursing staff during overseas assignments
  • Maintain compliance with healthcare regulatory authorities

3. Who This Policy Applies To

This policy applies to:

  • Patients requiring nursing escort services outside the UAE
  • Licensed nurses employed or contracted by Al Fadhl Home Health Care Center
  • Administrative and clinical teams coordinating international travel services

4. Key Definitions

  • Nursing Escort: A licensed nurse who accompanies a patient during travel to provide medical and nursing care.
  • International Travel: Any travel outside the United Arab Emirates.
  • Legal Guardian: An individual legally authorized to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the patient.

5. Eligibility Requirements

For Patients

  • The patient must be medically stable for travel.
  • A written medical clearance must be issued by a licensed physician.
  • Informed consent must be signed by the patient or legal guardian.
  • Valid travel and medical insurance is required.

For Nurses

  • A valid UAE nursing license (DHA, DOH, or MOH as applicable).
  • At least two (2) years of clinical experience.
  • A valid passport and required travel visas.
  • Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification (ACLS if clinically required).

6. Service Process

Request & Approval

  • A written request is submitted by the patient or legal guardian.
  • Medical fitness-to-travel is assessed and approved.
  • Clinical management reviews and approves the request.
  • A service agreement and consent forms are signed.
  • Full payment is completed before travel.

7. Required Documentation

Patient Documents

  • Passport and visa
  • Medical report and treatment plan
  • Medication list
  • Travel and medical insurance
  • Signed consent and liability waiver

Nurse Documents

  • Passport and visa
  • Valid nursing license
  • Employment confirmation letter
  • Travel insurance coverage

8. Tickets & Accommodation

  • Round-trip (two-way) airline tickets for both the patient and the nursing escort (departure and return) shall be arranged and paid for by the patient or family.
  • The class of travel must be suitable for the patient’s medical condition and clinical needs.
  • Accommodation must be safe, hygienic, and located close to healthcare facilities.
  • Separate accommodation for the nurse is preferred unless the patient’s condition requires continuous or overnight care.
  • Any changes, rebooking, or cancellation fees related to airline tickets or accommodation shall be the responsibility of the patient or family, unless otherwise agreed in writing.

9. Financial Responsibilities

The patient or legal guardian is responsible for:

  • Airline tickets (patient and nurse)
  • Visa fees
  • Accommodation
  • Daily allowance (per diem)
  • Meals and local transportation
  • Emergency or incidental expenses

All payments must be completed before travel.

10. Transportation

  • Safe and appropriate transportation must be arranged at all locations.
  • Ambulance services must be used when medically indicated.
  • The nurse remains with the patient during transfers unless medically unnecessary.

11. Safety & Risk Management

  • Emergency contacts and nearby medical facilities are identified in advance.
  • Nurses carry essential medications and supplies according to the care plan.
  • Infection control and patient safety protocols are strictly followed.
  • Services may be discontinued if safety is compromised.

12. Nurse Responsibilities

During travel, the escort nurse will:

  • Continuously monitor the patient’s condition
  • Administer medications as prescribed
  • Document all nursing care provided
  • Respond to emergencies and seek medical assistance when required
  • Maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical conduct

13. Roles & Responsibilities

Management

  • Ensure compliance with SEHA/DHA regulations
  • Approve international travel assignments
  • Ensure insurance and legal coverage

Nursing Staff

  • Provide care within their licensed scope of practice
  • Follow professional and ethical standards
  • Report incidents immediately

Patient / Family

  • Provide accurate medical information
  • Fulfill all financial obligations
  • Cooperate with care and safety instructions

14. Legal & Liability

  • Al Fadhl Home Health Care Center is not responsible for delays, cancellations, or events beyond its control.
  • A signed liability waiver is mandatory before travel.
  • Nurses practice strictly within their licensed scope.

15. Termination of Service

Services may be discontinued if:

  • The patient becomes medically unfit to travel
  • Safety concerns arise
  • Financial obligations are not met
  • Legal or regulatory issues occur

16. Records & Documentation

  • All travel-related records are maintained in the patient’s file.
  • Incident reports are completed when required.
  • Records are retained according to UAE healthcare regulations.

17. Compliance

This policy complies with:

  • SEHA and DHA regulations
  • UAE Federal Healthcare Laws
  • International patient safety standards

18. Policy Review

This policy is reviewed annually or whenever regulatory updates require changes.