Frequently Asked Questions

Can I go to the hospital of my choice?

Most of the time you get to choose the hospital. But it really depends on the severity of the injuries or the type of medical call. If there is an immediate life threat, you may need to go to the closest hospital. Really serious emergencies may need the services of a trauma center. There are three in our area: Tacoma General, St. Joseph's Hospital and Harborview Medical Center. If you called us because of chest pain, you may need specialized treatment at a hospital that has a catheterization lab. Sometimes hospitals are on diversion, that means the emergency department is full and they will not accept any new patients via ambulance except under the most dire circumstances.