What Is Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) and Who Qualifies in California?

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) is a vital benefit for individuals who need help getting to and from healthcare appointments but do not require emergency services. In California, this program is especially important for Medi-Cal members, offering free or low-cost transportation to covered medical services. Understanding how NEMT works and who qualifies can make a huge difference in accessing timely care.

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TLDR – Quick Guide

• NEMT provides rides to medical appointments for people without access to transportation.
  
• It is not for emergencies but for routine or essential medical services.
  
• Covered under Medi-Cal for eligible patients in California.
  
• Transportation may include vans, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, or ambulances when medically necessary.
  
• Requires prior authorization from a doctor or healthcare provider.
  

What Is Non-Emergency Medical Transportation?

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) is a service that helps patients travel to medical appointments when they can’t get there on their own. This includes transportation to:

• Doctor visits
  
• Dialysis appointments
  
• Therapy sessions
  
• Pharmacy visits
  
• Outpatient surgeries
  

The service is designed for individuals who have no other means of transportation and whose medical condition prevents them from using public transit or driving themselves. NEMT is not intended for urgent or emergency situations.

How NEMT Works in California

In California, NEMT is a Medi-Cal covered benefit. That means if you’re enrolled in Medi-Cal and meet certain criteria, you may be eligible for free transportation to your medical appointments. These services are provided through licensed NEMT providers who coordinate with your health plan or local county office.

Who Qualifies for NEMT in California?

Eligibility for NEMT depends on both your medical need and your inability to get to healthcare services independently.

General Eligibility Criteria:

• Must be enrolled in Medi-Cal
  
• Must have a medical or physical condition that prevents you from traveling without assistance
  
• Must be traveling to a Medi-Cal covered medical service
  
• Must receive prior authorization from a provider
  

Examples of Qualifying Scenarios

• A patient who uses a wheelchair and needs transportation to dialysis
  
• A senior with mobility issues who cannot ride the bus or drive
  
• A person undergoing chemotherapy who is too weak to travel alone
  

Types of NEMT Services Available

Ambulatory Transportation

For individuals who can walk but need help getting to and from a vehicle.

Wheelchair Transportation

For those who require a wheelchair-accessible vehicle.

Gurney Transportation

Used when a person must lie down during transport but does not require emergency care.

Non-Emergency Ambulance

For patients with medical conditions requiring medical monitoring during the trip.

How to Request NEMT Services

1. Talk to your doctor – They must complete a Physician Certification Statement (PCS) if your health condition requires NEMT.
   
2. Contact your Medi-Cal managed care plan – Each plan has specific instructions for requesting rides.
   
3. Get scheduled – Once authorized, the NEMT provider will schedule and confirm your ride.

Key Takeaways

• NEMT helps Medi-Cal patients attend medical appointments when they cannot travel alone.
  
• It includes transportation for chronic conditions, routine care, and specialty services.
  
• Services must be authorized by a medical provider.
  
• NEMT is different from emergency transport—it’s for planned, non-urgent needs.
  
• Available in California for qualified Medi-Cal members at no cost.

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