Non-emergency medical transportation, or NEMT, helps people safely get to and from medical appointments when they do not need an ambulance. It is commonly used by older adults, people with disabilities, patients with mobility challenges, and anyone who needs more support than a traditional rideshare or taxi can provide.
What does NEMT include?
NEMT can be used for many types of healthcare-related trips, including:
Doctor and specialist appointments
Dialysis
Physical or occupational therapy
Outpatient procedures
Rehabilitation visits
Hospital or surgery discharges
Mental health appointments
Pharmacy trips
Recurring medical treatments
Some NEMT providers also offer wheelchair-accessible transportation, assistance with walkers and mobility equipment, and door-to-door support.
Who uses NEMT?
NEMT is especially helpful for people who are medically stable but need a safer or more supportive transportation option.
That may include:
Seniors who no longer drive
Wheelchair users
Patients recovering from surgery
Individuals attending regular dialysis or therapy
People who need help entering or exiting a vehicle
Families arranging transportation for an aging parent
Assisted living, rehabilitation, and senior care facilities
How is NEMT different from an ambulance?
NEMT is for non-emergency situations.
If a passenger needs emergency medical treatment during transportation or is experiencing a medical emergency, an ambulance is the appropriate option.
NEMT is intended for passengers who are medically stable and simply need dependable transportation and assistance getting to their destination.
Can a caregiver ride along?
Yes. Many NEMT trips allow a family member, caregiver, or aide to accompany the passenger. If someone will be riding along, let the transportation provider know when the trip is scheduled.
Can NEMT accommodate wheelchairs?
Many NEMT providers offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and can transport passengers who use wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility equipment.
When booking, provide details about the passenger's mobility needs so the appropriate vehicle can be scheduled.
How do you schedule NEMT?
For private-pay transportation, passengers or their families can usually contact the transportation company directly.
If transportation is being provided through Medicaid or another benefit program, the ride may need to be scheduled through the passenger's health plan or designated transportation program.
Need transportation in the Triangle?
Magnolia Signature Care provides non-emergency medical transportation designed around safety, reliability, comfort, and attentive service.
Contact us to schedule a ride or discuss transportation for yourself, a loved one, or your facility.