Medical Preferential Loading Program Reminder and Accommodations for Medical Emergencies

Medical Preferential Loading Program

Users of Washington State Ferries who need reduced wait times and preferential access to a sailing for significant medical reasons, must work with their licensed healthcare provider to enroll in the medical preferential loading program online. This is in accordance with Washington State Law (WAC 468-300-700) and prioritizes vehicles with patients “where an extended wait on the dock would cause detrimental risks to their health.” If your medical condition puts you at risk, your healthcare provider will fill out the Medical Preferential Loading program application on the website (they should have the address). Healthcare providers needing assistance may contact Customer Service at 1 (888) 808-7977 or 1 (206) 464-6400.

Once the application is submitted online, an enrollment email will be sent to both the customer and healthcare provider. Once the application is approved, a copy will be emailed to both the customer and healthcare provider. Please arrive 30 minutes early to the terminal and bring a printed copy along with matching ID. Read the full list of rules and regulations here.

Accommodation for Medical Emergencies: “Follow Vehicle”

For patients in an ambulance or life flight/air evacuation, a family member’s vehicle is allowed preferential loading privileges to bring themselves and their vehicle to the hospital. State law allows one additional vehicle to accompany a qualifying emergency medical vehicle or authorized med-evac when going to, but not when returning from, an emergency. EMS personnel will call WSF’s operations center, who will relay that information to the terminal staff and allow for preferential loading of the follow vehicle.