From the nurses and doctors who collect the samples from patients to the labs who receive them, consistency, communication, and integrity is key when you’re looking for a medical specimen courier. So how do you choose a medical courier service that’s going to go your last mile? Here’s what to look for.
LOOK FOR COMPASSION
With such precious cargo at stake, you want a medical specimen courier service that puts patient care above all else. Paying attention to customer reviews and testimonials via Yelp and Google can help you find a medical courier company that gets gold stars for care. Doing due diligence on company ethos and leadership will also tell you whether there is a culture of care that will trickle down to your patients.
Follow this list of recommendations before hiring a medical specimen courier service to go your last mile. When patient health is on the line, choosing the right partner in logistics can mean the difference between life and death.
TRAINED FOR EXCELLENCE
Medical specimen couriers are more than just drivers—they are your representative in the field. They need to be up-to-date on storage and handling protocols, and know how to keep specimens safe in transit. Ask what qualifications the medical couriers are required to have in addition to how many hours they train before getting behind the wheel. Ideally, they should be HIPPA certified. The threat of human error is real, and it’s extensive training and awareness that helps keep these errors to a minimum.
RELIABLE TRANSPORTATION
Don’t be afraid to ask questions about how regularly the fleet is inspected, and by whom. Ideally, opt for a service with company-owned vehicles, as they are often maintained on a schedule by a fleet manager. Don’t forget to ask the representative what protocols they have in place in the event of a breakdown. When pick up and delivery are the main service offering, getting clear answers to these questions is a must.
SUPERIOR CUSTOMER SERVICE
What happens if a specimen goes missing? The company you’re engaging should have top stars for customer service and a customer service number that’s staffed by human beings (no bots) 24/7. The integrity of patient specimens is crucial, and the last thing you want is to be transferred to voicemail when you’re in crisis-mode.
LONG-TERM, FULL TIME EMPLOYEES
You want a courier who is dedicated to and values her job, not someone who was hired to fill a quick need for drivers. Full-time employees generally enjoy health benefits, higher pay, and job security, making them more likely to stay at their jobs longer. This ensures consistency of service, the potential for deeper on the job relationships, and a happier workforce. Look into the turnover rate at the company you’re thinking to engage. If it’s high, that’s a red flag.
PROFESSIONAL LOOK AND DEMEANOR
The medical courier you work with is representing you in the field. That’s why professionalism is key, and even the little details matter. Would you want your specimens picked up by someone wearing shorts? Any reputable medical specimen courier company will have strict rules for their driver’s appearance, demeanor, and service protocols.
TECH-SAVVY
Research what cloud-based technology the company uses to connect you to your courier at all times. Some courier companies have proprietary technology platforms that track shipments, routes, and volume to give you real time data that helps inform your logistics management strategy.
Follow this list of recommendations before hiring a medical specimen courier service to go your last mile. When patient health is on the line, choosing the right partner in logistics can mean the difference between life and death.
—Hazel Shahgholi
