Is NEMT Covered by Insurance or Medicaid in Michigan?

Understanding Your Coverage for Medical Transportation

When a loved one needs regular medical transportation—such as trips to dialysis, chemotherapy, rehab, or specialist visits—cost quickly becomes a concern. Many families in Grand Rapids ask the same question:

Is Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) covered by Medicaid or private insurance in Michigan?

The answer is: yes, in many cases. But eligibility and coverage can vary based on your insurer, plan type, and medical necessity. In this guide, we’ll break down what’s typically covered, how to check if you qualify, and what options you have if you’re not covered.

What Is NEMT?

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) refers to transportation for individuals who need help getting to and from non-emergency healthcare appointments. This includes:

• Wheelchair transportation

• Ambulatory rides for individuals who walk with assistance

• Stretcher transportation for bed-bound patients

NEMT is not an ambulance service—it’s a pre-scheduled ride designed for people who are stable but still need special care or accessibility during transport.

Does Medicaid Cover NEMT in Michigan?

Yes, Michigan Medicaid does cover NEMT for eligible beneficiaries who have no other means of transportation to medical services. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) partners with transportation brokers and approved providers like Reliable Medical Transportation to coordinate these services.

Covered transportation includes rides to:

• Doctor or specialist appointments

• Hospital outpatient services

• Dialysis treatments

• Chemotherapy or radiation

• Substance use or mental health services

• Long-term care or rehab facilities

Who Is Eligible for NEMT Coverage?

You may qualify for Medicaid-covered NEMT if:

• You’re currently enrolled in a Michigan Medicaid plan

• You have no access to a personal vehicle

• You cannot drive due to a medical condition

• Public transportation is not available or accessible

• Your destination is for a Medicaid-approved medical service

You do not need to be confined to a wheelchair or bed to qualify—ambulatory patients can also receive coverage.

How to Use Medicaid NEMT in Grand Rapids

1. Identify Your Medicaid Plan

In Michigan, Medicaid is administered by various managed care plans. Common ones include:

• Molina Healthcare

• Blue Cross Complete of Michigan

• McLaren Health Plan

• Meridian Health Plan

• Priority Health

You’ll need to contact your specific plan for transportation instructions.

2. Call the Transportation Line

Most plans have a dedicated NEMT scheduling line. You’ll be asked to provide:

• Your Medicaid ID number

• Appointment date and time

• Pickup and drop-off addresses

• Medical provider name and phone number

• Mobility needs (wheelchair, stretcher, etc.)

3. Wait for Confirmation

Once approved, the transportation broker will assign a provider and confirm the ride. In Grand Rapids, Reliable Medical Transportation may be dispatched if you're within our service zone and we are a contracted provider.

What If You’re Not Covered by Medicaid?

If you're not enrolled in Medicaid, or your insurance plan doesn't cover transportation, you still have options.

At Reliable Medical Transportation, we offer affordable private-pay rides for individuals who:

• Have Medicare (which usually doesn’t cover NEMT)

• Have private insurance that excludes NEMT

• Are attending non-covered appointments like dental visits, vision exams, or non-medical errands

• Need long-distance or out-of-network transport

We provide cost estimates upfront and can arrange one-time or recurring service with flexible payment options.

Common Misunderstandings About NEMT Coverage

Myth: All insurance plans must cover NEMT.Fact: Only Medicaid has federally mandated transportation requirements. Medicare and private plans are not required to offer this service.

Myth: NEMT is only for people in wheelchairs.Fact: We serve ambulatory clients as well—those who walk with canes, walkers, or assistance.

Myth: The doctor must request the ride.Fact: You don’t always need a doctor’s referral. Some plans allow self-scheduling for recurring treatments.

Example Scenario: Medicaid-Covered Dialysis Rides

In 2025, a 62-year-old Medicaid beneficiary in East Grand Rapids began dialysis three times a week. She had no vehicle and struggled to use public transit due to mobility issues. Through her Medicaid plan, she was approved for NEMT and began receiving regular, on-time transportation from Reliable Medical Transportation. Her treatment compliance improved dramatically, and she regained independence without relying on family.

FAQs About NEMT Coverage in Michigan

Does Medicare cover NEMT?Generally, no. Original Medicare does not cover NEMT unless it's an emergency. Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer limited transport services.

Is transportation to a dentist covered?If the dental care is considered medically necessary and covered by Medicaid, then yes. Otherwise, it may not be.

Can I choose my transportation provider?You can request a preferred provider, but assignment is subject to broker availability and Medicaid contracts.

What if I need long-distance transport?Some Medicaid plans cover travel outside your immediate area if no local specialists are available. Prior authorization is usually required.

Can I bring a caregiver or family member?Yes, most NEMT policies allow one companion to ride along at no cost.

What About Other Types of Insurance?

Some private insurance plans may reimburse for medical transportation in limited circumstances—usually with prior authorization and documentation of medical necessity. Contact your insurer directly to ask about:

• Transportation benefits

• Ride reimbursement programs

• Supplemental health riders

What If I Missed the Medicaid Deadline?

If you recently became eligible for Medicaid or missed an application window, we offer private-pay services in the interim. Our rates are competitive, and we can transition your account to Medicaid-covered rides once your eligibility is active.

Final Thoughts

If you or a loved one needs help getting to medical appointments, understanding your coverage is critical. Medicaid beneficiaries in Michigan are entitled to NEMT services—but you must follow the right steps to ensure approval.

At Reliable Medical Transportation, we’re here to help. Whether you qualify for Medicaid or need private-pay options, we provide safe, timely, and compassionate transportation throughout Grand Rapids and West Michigan.

Call to Action

Still unsure if you’re covered? We can help.

Call Reliable Medical Transportation at 616-635-2981Email richf.rmt@gmail.comOr visit www.reliablemt.net to schedule a ride or request a quote.

Internal Links (Suggestions)

• [Services Overview – https://www.reliablemt.net/#services]

• [Wheelchair Transportation Options – https://www.reliablemt.net/#wheelchair]

• [Contact Page – https://www.reliablemt.net/#contact]

External Resources

• [Michigan Medicaid Transportation Info – https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs]

• [Michigan NEMT Coverage Details – https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/assistance-programs/healthcare/transportation]

• [Medicaid Transportation Guide from CMS – https://www.cms.gov/medicaid-transportation]