Why would an ambulance NOT take you to the closest hospital?

* Trauma center designation: Some hospitals are designated as trauma centers, which means they have the highest level of care for critically injured patients. If you have a life-threatening injury, the ambulance will likely take you to a trauma center even if it's not the closest hospital.

* Pediatric expertise: Similarly, some hospitals have special expertise in treating children. If you have a child who is sick or injured, the ambulance may take you to a hospital that is better equipped to care for them, even if it's not the closest one.

* Behavioral health emergencies: If you are having a mental health crisis, the ambulance may take you to a hospital that has a psychiatric unit, even if it's not the closest one.

* Transport preference: In some cases, you may be able to request to be taken to a specific hospital, even if it's not the closest one. However, the ambulance crew has the final say in where you are taken, and they will always base their decision on what is best for your medical care.