Plain-English definition
NEMT is a category of medical transportation that exists between two other categories: standard transportation (rideshare, family driving) and emergency transportation (ambulances). NEMT serves people who can't safely drive themselves and can't easily use public transit or rideshare — but who don't need a paramedic en route.
Who uses NEMT?
- Seniors who no longer drive but still have regular medical appointments
- Patients on recurring treatments (dialysis, chemotherapy, radiation, physical therapy)
- Wheelchair users who need accessible transport
- Post-surgery patients heading home
- Hospital discharges going to a SNF, rehab, or home
- Patients with cognitive impairments who need supervision during transport
- People with mobility limitations not severe enough for an ambulance
What vehicles are used?
NEMT covers a few different vehicle types depending on the passenger:
- Ambulatory NEMT: Standard sedan or minivan for passengers who can walk and seat themselves.
- Wheelchair-accessible vans (ambulettes): Vans with hydraulic lifts or ramps and four-point securement for wheelchair users.
- Stretcher transport: Specialized vehicles for passengers who must lie flat. (DachiPlus refers these to partner stretcher operators.)
How is NEMT different from an ambulance?
The key difference is medical monitoring. An ambulance is staffed by EMTs or paramedics who can administer medications, monitor vitals, and intervene en route. NEMT drivers are trained in passenger assistance, wheelchair securement, and CPR — but they don't deliver medical care. NEMT is appropriate when the passenger is medically stable; ambulances are appropriate for emergencies or transports requiring active monitoring.
Who pays for NEMT?
Several different payment paths cover NEMT in New York:
- Medicaid: Covers NEMT for medically necessary trips at no cost to the member. In New York, Medicaid NEMT is coordinated through MAS (Medical Answering Services).
- Medicare Advantage: Many plans include transportation as a supplemental benefit. See coverage details.
- Workers' compensation: Covers trips related to a work-related injury.
- No-fault auto: Covers trips related to a motor vehicle accident.
- Long-term care insurance: Often covers transportation as a benefit.
- Private pay: Direct payment with credit, debit, HSA, or FSA.
How do you book NEMT?
If you have Medicaid, call MAS at 1-844-666-6270 at least 72 hours before your appointment. If you're paying privately or using insurance, call the NEMT provider directly — for DachiPlus, that's (516) 754-7777.