Understanding Non-Emergency Medical Transportation: More Than Just a Ride

Table of contents

• What is non-emergency medical transportation?
• What are the benefits of using non-emergency medical transportation?
• Does insurance cover non-emergency medical transportation?
• How is non-emergency medical transportation different from rideshare
• How to set up non-emergency medical transportation in Orange County

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Navigating health care can be complex as you age. Sometimes that can even include the previously simple act of getting to and from your healthcare appointments. 

What was once the simple act of hopping in the car or hailing a taxi can become difficult for seniors now experiencing mobility challenges. 

That’s where Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) comes in, playing a vital role in ensuring accessibility to healthcare services for those who need it most.

So let’s take a look at the benefits of NEMT, how it differs from other services, and how you can easily schedule transport for your next healthcare appointment. 

What is non-emergency medical transportation?

Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) is a specialized service that offers transportation for individuals who need assistance getting to and from: 

• Medical appointments 
• Dental appointments
• Clinic appointments
• Dialysis centers
• Outpatient surgical centers
• Home from a hospital, assisted living, or nursing facility.

We know that there may be times when driving isn’t feasible or when other forms of transport aren’t available or convenient. That’s when NEMT can be a real lifeline. Whether it’s a routine check-up, a surgery follow-up, or a regular treatment like dialysis, NEMT is a resource to ensure that important appointments are never missed.

By providing a safe and dependable way to travel to and from healthcare facilities, NEMT helps ensure that no one has to forgo necessary healthcare because of transportation difficulties. It’s like having an extra support system there to make sure getting to healthcare appointments is as simple as stepping out the door.

NEMT is a service designed with care, specifically for those who may not always find it easy to get to appointments for health-related reasons.

What are the benefits of using non-emergency medical transportation?

Life is a journey, and sometimes we all need a little help getting from point A to point B. Especially when it comes to health-related destinations. This is where NEMT comes in.

The beauty of NEMT lies in its inclusivity and adaptability. These services are tailored to accommodate your needs, offering reliable transportation for those who walk independently, use mobility aids or supplemental oxygen, or need a wheelchair or gurney. Even individuals affected by COVID-19 are cared for, ensuring no one is left behind.

An aspect that significantly sets NEMT services apart is their meticulous attention to safety and comfort. This isn’t your standard ride; these are custom-built vehicles meticulously designed to meet American Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. Each ride isn’t just a journey; it’s a promise of reaching your destination safely and comfortably.

The crux of NEMT is its unwavering reliability and professionalism. It’s a service that understands the value of your health appointments and respects the importance of getting you there on time. The value of this service becomes increasingly clear when we see the hurdles it helps overcome, smoothing the path to accessible healthcare for all.

Does insurance cover non-emergency medical transportation?

Parentis Health’s non-emergency medical transport services are private pay. This means that the cost of the ride isn’t typically covered by insurance but instead is paid for directly by the individual using the service.

However, the team at Parentis Health understands the importance of transparency and peace of mind when it comes to finances, especially in healthcare. That’s why they’re committed to letting you know the cost of your trip upfront. No guesswork, no anxiety, and no surprising bills turning up in your mailbox later on.

It’s certainly different from using an ambulance service, where costs can be uncertain and sometimes result in surprisingly hefty bills. With Parentis Health, our aim is to make sure that the only surprise you get is the comfort, care, and exceptional service our drivers provide.

How is non-emergency medical transportation different from rideshare

Think of it this way: rideshares and NEMT services are a bit like apples and oranges. They might both fall under the ‘fruit’ category – or in our case, ‘transportation’ – but the similarities largely end there.

Rideshares like Uber or Lyft are excellent for quick, convenient trips around town. Need to get to a lunch date, a shopping spree, or a movie? They’re your go-to. However, when it comes to crucial medical appointments, their one-size-fits-all approach may fall short.

That’s where NEMT services come in. Think of them as your personal health chauffeur. Yes, you might notice a price difference when compared to your regular rideshare. But that’s because NEMT is offering so much more than just a ride – it’s a comprehensive, personalized medical transport service.

Our drivers

The difference starts with the drivers. NEMT drivers are not just trained to drive; they are trained and background-checked for medical transport. They’re familiar with a range of needs, whether you’re ambulatory, in a wheelchair, or require a gurney.

When you use NEMT, your driver will walk you into your appointment and ensure you’re settled. They’ll even give their name to the front desk, so when you’re ready to be picked up, the office can easily get in touch with them. It’s a level of service that goes far beyond what a typical rideshare offers.

Our vehicles

Rideshare drivers use their personal vehicles, which may or may not meet the needs of differently abled riders.

In contrast, non-emergency medical transport uses vehicles that are American Disability Act (ADA) compliant. This means they’re easily able to accommodate individuals who use:

• Walkers
• Wheelchairs
• Gurney transport
• Supplemental oxygen

Simply put, NEMT provides a level of care, safety, and personal attention that rideshares aren’t designed to offer. So while the cost might be different, remember that what you’re getting is also vastly different. It’s more than a ride – it’s a service dedicated to making your healthcare journey as smooth and comfortable as possible.

How to set up non-emergency medical transportation in Orange County

Parentis Health makes it easy to schedule non-emergency transportation services. Simply give us a call and let us know what your needs are:

1. Call to schedule and let us know your transportation needs.

2. Let us know the type of transport needed, drop-off/pick-up time, and location.

3. We’ll assess your individual transport needs and schedule your transport. 

4. We will re-confirm your appointment on the day of pick-up.

It’s that easy! We pick you up wherever you set your pick-up location and take you to your pre-scheduled destination. 

Parentis Health’s non-emergency transportation services in Laguna Hills and surrounding cities, including but not limited to: 

• Laguna Woods
• Laguna Niguel
• Mission Viejo
• Aliso Viejo
• Dana Point
• Laguna Beach 
• Irvine

Call (833) 247- 9111 today for additional service areas in Orange County, CA.