Top 5 Questions About Non-Emergency Medical Transport Answered

Navigating non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) can often raise questions, especially if you or a loved one are new to the process. Understanding how NEMT works and what to expect can alleviate concerns and ensure a smoother experience.

Here are the top 5 questions about non-emergency medical transport, answered:

1. What is Non-Emergency Medical Transport (NEMT)?

Non-Emergency Medical Transport (NEMT) refers to transportation services provided to patients who do not require emergency medical care but need assistance getting to and from medical appointments, treatments, or procedures. It is often used by individuals with disabilities, elderly patients, or those with medical conditions that prevent them from driving themselves.

Vitality Transport EMS primarily provides transportation via non-emergency mode, we are all licensed EMTs and can provide a variety of levels of medical care and support.

2. Who Provides Non-Emergency Medical Transport Services?

NEMT services are typically provided by specialized transportation companies or organizations. These providers ensure that patients are transported safely and comfortably to their medical appointments. They may offer a range of vehicles tailored to different patient needs, such as wheelchair-accessible vans or vehicles equipped with stretcher options for patients requiring lying-down positions.

Vitality Transport EMS is a stretcher ambulance mode of medical transportation that is staffed with licensed EMTs. We do not provide patient seated loading or unloading of wheelchairs onto our vehicles. You must be loaded onto our stretcher for transportation.

3. How Do I Arrange Non-Emergency Medical Transport?

Arranging NEMT usually involves contacting a transportation provider directly or through your healthcare provider or insurance company. Many providers offer online booking options or dedicated phone lines for scheduling transport. It's important to provide details such as the patient's medical condition, mobility needs, access and any barriers for loading/unloading at your location, and any specific requirements (like oxygen or wheelchair accessibility) when making arrangements.

Vitality Transport EMS can be contacted through our dispatch phone line to arrange and discuss scheduled transportation.

470.586.3532

4. What Should I Expect During Non-Emergency Medical Transport?

During NEMT, an EMT will pick up the patient from their home or designated location and transport them to their medical appointment or discharge location. The vehicle will be equipped with necessary amenities based on the patient's needs, ensuring comfort and safety during the journey. The driver will assist with boarding and disembarking as needed, and may provide basic medical assistance during the transport.

Vitality Transport EMS seeks to provide comfort, support, and care during each transport.

Let us know if you have any questions.

5. Is Non-Emergency Medical Transport Covered by Insurance?

Many insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, cover non-emergency medical transportation for eligible patients. Coverage can vary based on factors such as medical necessity, distance traveled, and the type of transport required (e.g., wheelchair transport vs. stretcher transport). It's important to check with your insurance provider or healthcare coordinator to understand your coverage options and any associated costs.

Vitality Transport EMS is in-network with insurance providers and these are updated regularly.

Please reach out and let us know how we can assist you in confirming if we accept your insurance and provide you with information to confirm with your insurance company for coverage.

Non-Emergency Medical Transport plays a crucial role in ensuring that patients can access necessary medical care safely and comfortably.

By understanding the process of arranging NEMT, knowing what to expect during transport, and clarifying insurance coverage, patients and their families can navigate medical appointments with greater ease and peace of mind.

If you have further questions about non-emergency medical transport or need assistance arranging transport for yourself or a loved one, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider or to us to get more information.

Stay informed and stay well!