Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to provide proof of income every time?
Proof of income is valid for 12 months from the date it was submitted. IRS tax returns are valid for 12 months or until a new return is filed. If you're using other forms of financial verification such as Social Security or disability award letters, unemployment documentation or other proof, you'll need to resubmit updated documents each year. We also collect bank statements every 3 months to verify ongoing eligibility. Because our system automatically removes uploaded files after 30-60 days, we may occasionally ask you to reupload documents to reverify your information. If you've submitted income documentation within the past year and your financial situation hasn't changed significantly, you don't need to submit it again. When you start a new request, we'll check our records and let you know if your information is still current, saving you time on repeat requests.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen?
No, U.S. citizenship is not required. Mercy Medical Angels serves anyone who needs transportation to medical care within the United States, regardless of citizenship or immigration status. Your personal information will never be shared or reported. For commercial airline travel, a Real ID or other TSA-approved identification is required at the airport.
Do I need to pay you back later?
Absolutely not! Mercy Medical Angels provides assistance as a gift. There is no repayment required, ever. We're a nonprofit funded by donations, grants and generous supporters who want to assist people like you access medical care. You don't need to pay us back, and accepting our assistance won't affect your credit, benefits or any other services you receive.
Do I need a doctor's referral?
No, you don't need a doctor's referral to request assistance. However, you do need proof of your medical appointment (a letter, portal screenshot or email from your medical facility). Your doctor doesn't need to refer you to Mercy Medical Angels. You can request assistance directly.
Can you pay for my rental car, toll fees, parking or lodging?
No. We cannot assist with rental cars, toll fees, parking fees or lodging expenses. For resources that may assist with these costs, visit findhelp.org or speak with your hospital's social worker.
Can you assist with recurring appointments like dialysis or chemotherapy?
Absolutely. We understand that many patients need transportation for ongoing treatments that may span weeks or months. We're equipped to assist with recurring appointments as long as eligibility requirements are met. When you submit your request, include your full treatment schedule (how many times per week or month). We'll calculate the frequency and total distance to determine the best assistance plan. For frequent appointments (three or more times per week), we may provide monthly gas cards or Uber/Lyft vouchers to simplify travel. Even if your treatment facility is nearby (under 25 miles one way), we may still be able to assist if you're traveling 12 or more times per month. We recognize that frequent short trips can quickly become a financial strain. Please provide your appointment schedule (frequency and duration), the length of your treatment plan (for example, 3 months, 6 months or ongoing) and documentation confirming recurring treatment. Important note: If you verify income through SSI or bank statements, you'll need to submit updated proof every 3 months. Our system automatically removes uploaded files after 30-60 days for privacy and security, so we recommend including income documentation with each application to avoid delays.
Can a family member or caregiver travel with me?
Yes! We understand that having support during medical travel is important. Companion travel is available for all types of transportation. For Ground Transportation, a companion can always travel with you at no additional cost. For Volunteer Pilot Flights, one companion can travel in most cases. Weight and space limits may apply based on aircraft size, and the pilot confirms companion approval when coordinating your flight. For Commercial Flights, one companion can travel with you. We cover their flight ticket cost as well, and the companion is also responsible for their own airline taxes/fees (~$25-55). Let us know on your request form that you'll have a companion, and we'll make the necessary arrangements.
Can Veterans get assistance through Mercy Medical Angels?
Absolutely! Veterans are welcome to use our services. Many Veterans need to travel to VA hospitals or specialty care facilities that aren't covered by VA transportation benefits. You can use Mercy Medical Angels assistance for appointments at non-VA facilities, when VA transportation isn't available or sufficient and in addition to (not instead of) VA benefits. Thank you for your service, and we're honored to assist you access the medical care you need.
Can I travel if I'm on oxygen?
Yes, but the type of transportation depends on your oxygen needs. For Ground Transportation, you can bring your own oxygen equipment. For Volunteer Pilot Flights, some volunteer pilots can accommodate passengers who need oxygen, but not all. Small aircraft have limitations on oxygen equipment. Let us know about oxygen requirements on your request form. For Commercial Flights, airlines have established procedures for passengers needing oxygen. You'll need to coordinate with the airline about bringing oxygen equipment. Always inform us about oxygen requirements so we can match you with appropriate transportation.
Can I request assistance again for another appointment?
Yes. If you have future medical appointments that require travel assistance, you're always welcome to submit new requests. If it's been within 12 months since your last request, you don't need to resubmit your proof of income (we'll have it on file). If you verify income with bank statements, you'll need to provide updated statements every 3 months. The process will be faster since we already have your information. If it's been more than 12 months, you'll need to provide updated proof of income. Everything else works the same way as before. There's no limit to how many times you can request assistance, as long as you continue to meet eligibility requirements. Private Pilot flights have no limit on the number of requests. Commercial and Ground transportation are typically limited to once per month, depending on available resources. These limits may vary based on funding and volunteer availability.
Can I fly if I am pregnant?
For safety reasons, we do not fly women over five months pregnant or with high-risk pregnancies on volunteer pilot flights. Small aircraft fly at lower altitudes and may not be suitable for later-stage or complicated pregnancies. If you are pregnant and need medical travel assistance, please contact us to discuss alternative transportation options that may be safer for you.
Can I choose which type of transportation I want?
We appreciate that you may have a preference, but the final decision is based on several factors: Distance (this is the primary factor in determining eligibility for each service type), Medical needs (volunteer pilot flights require certain medical clearances that commercial flights don't), Timeline (commercial flights are easier to book on short notice than volunteer pilots) and Availability (volunteer pilot availability varies by region and season). Our team will always select the best option for your specific situation and explain why. If you have concerns about the recommended transportation type, please discuss them with our team. We'll listen and work with you to address any worries.
Can I get my complete giving history?
Log in to your donor portal to view your full donation history. Download reports as PDF or CSV for tax purposes.
Can I include Mercy Medical Angels in my estate plans?
Absolutely! Visit our website to learn about planned giving options and get the information you need to include Mercy Medical Angels in your estate plans.
Can I donate airline miles or credit card points?
Yes for airline miles! We accept miles from Delta SkyWish, United MileagePlus, American Airlines and Southwest Rapid Rewards. Visit our website for direct links to donate your miles.
Can I donate my car or other vehicles?
Yes! We accept cars, trucks, boats, RVs and motorcycles. Towing is free nationwide and your donation is tax deductible. Donate your vehicle
Can I dedicate my donation in honor or memory of someone?
Yes! When donating, you can add a dedication during checkout, request a tribute card be sent (mailed within 48 hours) and include their name in our annual report (optional).
Are you audited by an independent organization?
Yes, we're audited annually by an independent CPA firm. We're also rated by Charity Navigator and meet all Better Business Bureau charity standards.
Are sponsorship contributions tax-deductible?
Yes, sponsorships are tax-deductible as charitable contributions. The fair market value of any benefits received (like event tickets) reduces the deductible portion. We'll provide documentation showing your deductible amount. Consult your tax advisor for specific guidance.
Am I able to see your financial statements or annual report?
Yes! Full transparency is important to us. You can download our annual report, view audited financial statements and access our IRS Form 990 [link]. All documents are updated annually by March 31st.
What types of aircraft are normally used for missions?
Most missions use single-engine, four- to six-seat aircraft. Some missions use twin-engine or turboprop aircraft. Experimental aircraft are not approved for transporting patients due to insurance and safety considerations.
What kind of liability applies to volunteer pilot missions?
Patients and escorts sign a liability waiver before flights. Good-Samaritan-style protections may apply to public-benefit flights flown without charge. For specific legal details, consult legal counsel and authoritative sources.
What insurance coverage is required for pilots?
Pilots must carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance, with no less than $100,000 per seat, on any aircraft used for Angel Flights. This coverage must be active and verifiable before any mission is assigned. Mercy Medical Angels does not provide supplemental insurance and cannot share costs associated with pilot coverage.
What happens if I need to cancel a mission as a pilot?
Safety always comes first. Pilots should cancel if weather, mechanical issues or personal emergencies arise. Contact the Transportation Coordinator at 757-679-0330 during business hours or 800-683-2659 after hours, and email afmalogistics@mercymedical.org as soon as you know of the change. Our staff will notify the passenger and work to arrange alternate transport.
What are the minimum flight hour requirements to volunteer as a pilot?
To qualify as a command pilot, you must have a minimum of 500 Pilot-in-Command (PIC) hours. Pilots still building hours may assist in other support roles until they meet the PIC requirement.
How far in advance are volunteer pilots contacted about missions?
Patients are asked to provide 7-10 full business days' notice when possible. However, short-notice requests can occur due to last-minute appointment changes, weather delays or mechanical issues with previously arranged flights.
How far do volunteer pilots typically fly per leg?
Routes are planned to keep individual legs around 200-300 nautical miles. For longer trips, missions are linked with other volunteer pilots from different regions. Pilots can volunteer for multiple legs if their aircraft and schedule allow.
How do volunteer pilot flights get coordinated?
A Transportation Coordinator screens patient applications for eligibility and medical approval, then posts missions on missions.angelflightmidatlantic.org. Volunteer pilots review mission details, accept flights they can support and coordinate timing, FBO locations and weather forecasts directly with the passenger.
Do I have to own a plane to volunteer as a pilot?
No, but you must have ready access to one. Minimum requirements include 12 hours flown in the last 90 days and at least 50 hours time-in-type. Some missions may arise on short notice, so reliable aircraft access is essential.
How are flight expenses handled for volunteer pilots?
Pilots volunteer their time and cover aircraft, fuel and all other flight costs. These expenses cannot be charged to or shared by the patient. Many FBOs offer fuel discounts for humanitarian flights, and some airports waive landing fees. Ask your local FBO about available discounts.
Do I need an Instrument Rating to fly missions?
An instrument rating (IFR) is strongly encouraged but not required for all missions. Many patient flights are affected by weather conditions, and pilots with IFR certification can safely accept more missions and provide more consistent service. While we may prioritize IFR-rated pilots for certain flights, VFR-only pilots are welcome to apply and will still have opportunities to serve when conditions and routes allow.
Can I use a rented or club aircraft for missions?
Yes. Pilots may use aircraft they rent, lease or have access to through a flying club or flight school, provided all insurance and FAA requirements are met.
What is Angel Wings for Veterans?
Angel Wings for Veterans is our specialized program serving Veterans, active-duty military members, first responders and their families. This program provides transportation assistance for travel to distant medical care and specialty treatments, PTSD and TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) treatment access, service dog acquisition and training, healing retreats and therapeutic programs (such as equine-assisted therapy), adaptive sports events and wellness programs, and reunion travel with family members. Veterans can apply for the same air and ground transportation services as all our patients, with additional support for Veteran-specific needs.
Do you assist with travel to healing retreats or therapeutic programs?
Yes. Angel Wings for Veterans can provide transportation assistance for Veterans traveling to healing retreats focused on PTSD, TBI or Veteran wellness, equine-assisted therapy programs, adaptive sports events and clinics, wilderness therapy or outdoor recreation programs, and other therapeutic programs specifically designed for Veterans. These programs must be vetted and focused on Veteran health and wellness. Include program details and appointment/event dates in your request for approval.
Do I qualify for Angel Wings for Veterans if I'm a Veteran?
Yes. Veterans, active-duty service members and first responders are eligible for transportation assistance if they meet the same basic criteria as other patients: traveling for medical care, treatment or service dog acquisition; household income at or below 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines; traveling a minimum distance of 100 miles total in a month; providing at least 7-10 days' advance notice; and being ambulatory and medically stable for travel. We understand that Veterans may need transportation for Veteran-specific services beyond traditional medical appointments, such as counseling, rehabilitation or adaptive programs. Please contact us to discuss your specific needs. We'll assist in determining the best travel option available.
Do I need to provide proof of military service?
Yes. You will need to provide your DD214 to verify your military service.
Can you assist me travel to get a service dog?
Yes! Angel Wings for Veterans provides transportation assistance for Veterans traveling to vetted service dog organizations to pick up a trained service dog, participate in service dog training programs and attend service dog evaluation appointments. This assistance is available for Veterans with PTS, TBI or other service-connected conditions who are working with accredited service dog organizations. Submit your request and include information about the service dog program and your appointment schedule.
What patient information do I need to submit a referral?
To submit a complete referral, you'll need the patient's full name, date of birth, address, phone and email; appointment details (date, time, facility name and address, treating physician); patient's medical condition (general information, not detailed medical records); proof of patient's income (tax return, SSI letter, bank statements or pay stubs); appointment verification (letter, portal screenshot or email from medical facility); and patient's mobility status and any special medical needs.
What if my patient doesn't meet the income guidelines but has significant medical debt?
If a patient's income exceeds the standard eligibility limits but they're facing substantial medical debt, we can review the situation on a case-by-case basis. We'll ask for documentation verifying the medical debt, such as billing statements or payment plans. Once received, the request is referred to upper management for review and approval. Our goal is to ensure that patients with genuine financial hardship still have access to the care and transportation they need.
How do I refer a patient to Mercy Medical Angels?
You have two options: Complete the request on behalf of your patient by filling out the online form with the patient's information and required documents, or give the link directly to the patient or family so they can complete it themselves. Both options are available through our online request system.
Can social workers or case managers request on behalf of patients?
Yes! Healthcare professionals can request assistance for their patients. You have two options: Complete the form on behalf of the patient by providing all patient information and required documents, or generate a shareable link to create a unique link/QR code to give to the patient or family so they can complete the form themselves (this protects patient privacy/HIPAA). We understand that social workers and case managers play a crucial role in connecting patients with resources. We've designed our process to make it easy for you to assist your patients access transportation to medical care.
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