What is Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)?
Non-Emergency Medical Transportation, often abbreviated as NEMT, is a service that offers vehicle transportation for individuals who need assistance getting to and from their medical appointments. NEMT is a required Medicaid benefit, but other providers can also offer accessible rides to improve access to healthcare.
People may utilize NEMT for…
- Doctor’s Appointments
- Dialysis
- Surgery and Follow-Up Appointments
- Vaccination Appointments
- And much more
Who can use NEMT services?
A variety of people can use non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). It is mostly used by individuals with physical, mental, or developmental disabilities who lack access to other types of transportation. NEMT services also benefit people without a driver’s license or without having a working vehicle. Older adults and those who live in rural areas often utilize NEMT services to get to medical appointments. Lastly, NEMT can also be used by patients who can’t drive due to their medical condition. All these groups benefit from NEMT as it helps them access the healthcare they need despite any limitations.
Does Medicaid cover NEMT services?
Medicaid does cover Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) services in certain cases. In most instances, NEMT coverage is available only if medically necessary transportation is required to access medical care that is not readily available by other means. The exact coverage details and eligibility requirements vary across states and programs. Eligibility may also depend on income levels and the type of service needed. Medicaid can help with arranging NEMT through private providers or public transportation options, depending on the state of residence. Often, pre-authorization is necessary before the trip, so please refer to your state’s Medicaid program before booking transportation.
What are the different types of NEMT providers?
NEMT providers come in all shapes and sizes. There are private options available, as well as government-funded solutions.
- Uber & Lyft
- Taxis
- Private Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Operators
- Government Transportation Departments
- Ambulances
- Hospital Shuttle Services
- Intra-Facility Transport Services
Factors to consider when choosing an NEMT provider
Budget
Some non-emergency medical transportation options cost more than others. If you don’t require much mobility assistance, a standard Uber, Lyft, or taxi may be your most cost-effective option. If you need help getting to the vehicle, getting into your seat, or need to travel in a wheelchair, an NEMT operator with wheelchair-accessible vans or buses will be your best bet.
Length of Your Trip
How far away is your appointment or destination? If you’re planning a long drive, consider an NEMT provider who can make your trip comfortable by offering appropriate seating.
Will You Travel in a Vehicle Seat, Wheelchair, or Stretcher?
If you need more support than a vehicle seat can offer, consider asking your NEMT provider what your seating arrangements will be during your trip. Some NEMT operators only offer lightweight transport wheelchairs, but these may break in the event of an accident. Other NEMT companies may transport you in a stretcher or gurney, forcing you to lie on your back, for the entire ride. Avoid these pitfalls by making sure that you choose a provider who uses a crash-tested, durable transport wheelchair that meets the WC19 standards for wheelchair transportation. It’s even better if the WC19 certified wheelchair can tilt or recline, which can relieve painful pressure points that can develop over a long trip.
Always ask your NEMT provider which seating arrangement they will offer you on the day of your trip, especially if you have pressure injuries, abdominal weakness, or conditions such as osteoporosis, which leave you more prone to injuries than the average passenger.
The Best NEMT Wheelchairs for Comfortable Travel
Ask your NEMT company if they offer Travrsa-LT Transport Wheelchairs to their passengers. The Travrsa-LT is crash tested and meets all of the WC19 standards for wheelchair transport. Furthermore, this wheelchair is one of the most comfortable NEMT seating arrangements available.
The Travrsa-LT Transport Wheelchair Features:
- An immersive seating surface that conforms to your body
- Adjustable seat width
- Tilt & recline functionality to relieve pressure pain points
- A narrow profile that can fit in most homes, hallways, and hospital rooms
Additionally, with the Travrsa-LT Transport Wheelchair, there’s no need to stand up, use a mechanical lift, or otherwise risk a fall to get into the wheelchair. Instead, the Travrsa-LT reclines to a flat position, and the passenger can simply slide from their bed or couch into the seat.
When it comes to comfort in non-emergency medical transportation, always ask to ride in a Travrsa-LT Transport Wheelchair for the safest, most comfortable experience.
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What is Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)?
Non-Emergency Medical Transportation, often abbreviated as NEMT, is a service that offers vehicle transportation for individuals who need assistance getting to and from their medical appointments. NEMT is a required Medicaid benefit, but other providers can also offer accessible rides to improve access to healthcare. Who can use NEMT services? A variety of people can use non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT).