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Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda talks with Pamela Mack, the Owner and President of Occuscreen, about how to conduct screening, background checks, and drug testing in the process of hiring NEMT drivers.
See the full interview on YouTube.
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Also, available to watch on Spotify.
And listen (audio only) on your other favorite podcast platforms Apple and Pandora.
Podcast Show Notes:
This podcast episode features a discussion between Nirav Chheda and Pamela Mack, owner of Occuscreen, about the importance of screening NEMT (Non-Emergency Medical Transportation) drivers. Pamela explains that her company has been in the background and drug screening business for over 30 years, with 15 years of experience specifically in the NEMT industry.
The conversation covers the types of screening required for NEMT drivers, which typically include criminal background checks, sex offender registry checks, motor vehicle reports, and drug screenings. Pamela emphasizes the importance of following regulatory guidelines, particularly the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines, to avoid legal issues and protect both drivers and NEMT businesses.
Pamela provides insights into the screening process, explaining that it's not as instantaneous as many people believe. She notes, "There's actually different processes, different courthouses we sometimes have to reach out to. It's not by Social Security number, it's by name and date of birth and then addresses and all sorts of other ways that we identify someone." The typical timeline for completing a screening is 1-3 business days, depending on the state's requirements.
The episode also addresses common misconceptions about background checks, such as the difference between fingerprinting and criminal background checks. Pamela advises that unless specifically required by contract, fingerprinting is often not the best method for employment screening.
Pamela stresses the importance of working with an experienced and accredited Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA). She recommends that NEMT businesses choose a screening company that is accredited by the Professional Background Screening Association (PBSA) and offers good customer service. As she puts it, "Find a partner that will actually work with you and answer your questions and be there for you. And then I think you'll find it's not that difficult, it's not that scary, it's not overwhelming."
Overall, the episode provides valuable insights for NEMT businesses on how to navigate the driver screening process effectively and compliantly.
Alright, hang ten! We've hit the thrilling part of business planning where we're diving into care-tech to bring sunshine into your journey — streamlining operations and boosting patient care for your California NEMT businessGet on( that surf)board with NEMT Software: Get a hoof of our cutting-edge technology to boost efficiency and elevate patient care. We’ll say, our comprehensive NEMT software simplifies scheduling, dispatching and route optimization, ensuring seamless daily operations. With GPS tracking for real-time updates and smooth patient communication, our intuitive platform supports both seasoned professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs alike. At Bambi, we're committed to ensuring your business thrives sustainably and successfully!Anyway, surf’s up to completing our thorough California series, crafted with care by our dedicated Bambi team. As you venture into the California NEMT market, approach it with the agility and grace of our dear deer.And remember, Bambi knows best! Reach out today for answers to your questions or to schedule a demo of our fun-in one aiNEMT software tailored for entrepreneurs just like you. Let's make your NEMT journey a delightful and sunny one!
Building your stellar NEMT crew in California is all about assembling a team of friendly drivers and savvy dispatchers who ensure a smooth ride for your passengers, whether they're newcomers or regulars catching rays on their way to medical appointments. Finding these NEMT rockstars means casting a wide net — explore job sites like Indeed and LinkedIn, or showcase your cool opportunities at local California job fairs. Trust us, the talent pool runs deep, just like the Pacific Ocean!Can you believe we're almost there? Let's head to the final stretch in the Golden State, Part 7, where we'll dive into all things tech. Click here to keep the journey surfin’ forward, or cruise through other parts in the series on the table of contents here.
Building a robust and reliable fleet is essential for your NEMT venture under California's sunshine and nearby surf. This section provides essential tips on selecting and maintaining vehicles and equipment to ensure safe and comfortable journeys for your passengers.
Picking the perfect vehicles: Invest in vehicles that cater to the specific needs of your clientele. Consider features like wheelchair ramps or lifts to comply with ADA regulations and ensure accessibility for everyone.
Equipping for excellence: Enhance your fleet with top-notch equipment such as ramps, lifts, first-aid kits, coolers and snack bags. Partner with local suppliers who prioritize sustainability — supporting California businesses promotes efficiency and eco-friendliness.
Maintain regular vehicle checks: Establish a strict maintenance schedule to keep your fleet running smoothly and safely, guaranteeing a positive experience for passengers and the environment.
You're getting closer to your goal! Ready to explore Part 6 and learn how to build and train your dream team? Click here to keep moving forward. Alternatively, check out other chapters in the series from the table of contents here.
Starting a startup in California isn't for the faint of heart, however, it sure is one for those Bambi-typed souls! Beginning a biz venture in Cali is full of exciting possibilities, but financial planning is key. Understanding the initial and ongoing expenses is imperative; think of them as your California keys to success! Don't hesitate to discuss these issues your potential biz partners and your family — they'll be your support system on this wave of a journey.
From buying vehicles and covering licensing fees to managing insurance premiums, marketing expenses and day-to-day operations, startup costs can quickly add up. Once you've mapped out these financial needs, securing the right funding is essential for launching and maintaining your NEMT business to bring in more gold into the Golden State.
Consider exploring options like small business loans, connecting with angel investors, or utilizing crowdfunding platforms to gather the necessary funds. Here are some steps and resources to kickstart your search for financial support in California:
The SBA offers various loan programs for small businesses, including the 7(a) loan program, which provides financial assistance for businesses with special requirements.
California Capital Access Program (CalCAP) and California’s Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank (IBank) both are great resources that help small businesses secure loans and support with financial planning.
California Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) oversees economic development initiatives and administers various incentive programs aimed at attracting and retaining businesses in California.
While direct grants tailored specifically for launching new businesses are uncommon, there are opportunities available for specialized purposes such as technological innovation and rural development. If you offer NEMT services to rural residents in California, you may qualify for grants listed on Grants.gov, a federal resource for grants. For additional opportunities, check out California-specific small business grants on the US Grants organization website here.
Awesome progress through this series! Ready to dive into Part 5 and learn how to grow your NEMT fleet? Click here to keep going. Alternatively, check out other sections in the series from the the table of contents here.
To kickstart your NEMT business under the California sun, mastering state and federal regulations is a must. Get ready to navigate California's unique registration and compliance requirements while sticking to federal guidelines for a smooth launch!
To ensure compliance with California's NEMT requirements, you must fulfill specific criteria, including passing background checks, meeting driver and vehicle standards and adhering to regulations set forth by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS). They oversee Medicaid (Medi-Cal) and can provide all the guidelines and rules you need.
NEMT services must also comply with federal regulations established by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Ensure you are familiar with these federal requirements before launching your NEMT business operations.
To insurance-proof your NEMT business in California, reach out to specialized insurance providers offering reliable, legally compliant coverage. This shields your company, employees, and patient riders from accidents and unexpected events. While ITR covers some bases, securing multiple types of insurance guarantees complete peace of mind under the sunny skies of California.
Check with local city and county offices, as well as the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation on the necessary licenses for highly-regulated industries such as NEMT.
CaliGold is also a good resource that provides information on permits and licenses required for specific business types in California.
If you're considering hiring employees — and it's a good bet you will — thorough research is crucial. After all, who will be driving your extensive fleet? Even Bambi had his forest friends for support. This highlights the importance of complying with employment laws, such as securing workers' compensation insurance, unemployment insurance and fulfilling new hire reporting requirements. The California Employment Development Department is a stellar resource for understanding these regulations.
By following these steps and leveraging available resources, you can ensure your new California business is set up for success, operating in complete compliance with the state’s regulations.
You're ridin’ the California NEMT business surf and lingo like a pro — keep surfin’ that wave in style! Ready to dive into Part 4 and discover how to secure funding in the Golden State? Click here to continue. Or, check out the table of contents here. to explore more sections in the series. Sunny days ahead!
Based on your research into the California NEMT market, it's key to develop a thorough business plan. This plan is essential for establishing your business and accessing funding opportunities.
Begin by consulting resources like the California Secretary of State to understand the initial steps involved in starting a business in California. Key aspects include selecting a suitable business structure, completing registration, obtaining required licenses and permits and adhering to applicable tax regulations. The California Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is also a valuable resource for startup support.
Here's a concise guide to navigate this stage of launching your business:
Decide on the legal structure of your business. Common options include Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Limited Liability Company (LLC) and Corporation (C-Corp or S-Corp). Each has different legal and tax implications so be sure to understand the differences.
Upon choosing the biz entity that best suits your biz, the next step is to come up with a name for it. Have fun with this part of the creative process — we certainly did when we came up with our name, Bambi. Once you have a name, both the entity and the name must be registered with the California Secretary of State to conduct business in California or with Californians.
Apply for an EIN from the IRS if you will have employees or operate as a corporation or partnership.
In California, you can register for taxes and obtain necessary permits through the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration(CDTFA).
Great! Ready to dive into Part 3 where we explore California's regulations and insurance requirements? Click here to get started. Otherwise, feel free to explore other sections in the series by checking out the table of contents here.
Welcome to California, where the opportunities for launching your NEMT business are as golden as the state itself. Before diving into the intricacies of setting up your venture, conducting thorough market research is paramount. This initial step will enable you to navigate California's expansive landscape and varied communities effectively, ensuring you identify underserved areas and avoid entering oversaturated markets.
California has one of the largest Medicaid populations in the entire country, with over 14.2 million enrollees. To meet the non-medical needs of this population is support offered by Medicaid in California (Medi-Cal). Within their managed care health plans are NEMT services. The Department of Health Care Services is another great place to look for information on NEMT providers across the state. Here are some of the NEMT brokers and/or providers offering NEMT services today:
Embracing the golden opportunities for your NEMT business in the sunny California landscape starts by understanding the demand in your local area and deciding whether to serve multiple jurisdictions or focus within a specific radius. Dive into research on nearby hospitals, healthcare facilities, wellness centers and other health-focused establishments. Think outside the obvious and look beyond the usual methods to uncover unique opportunities that set your business apart.
Upon thoroughly researching the NEMT market opportunities to learn about the demand across the state, it’s time to identify the most viable demographic to target — whether seniors, individuals with disabilities or a broader patient population. Honing in on a targeted group allows you to tailor your services and marketing strategies ever more efficiently.
Dive into the California NEMT service wave by focusing on the one (or two) most in demand to effectively meet your community's needs. This strategic approach ensures a solid foundation and sets the stage for long-term success. Keep an eye on competitors and stand out by offering unique services or targeting underserved niches. Launch with a top-tier fleet designed for your specific area, whether transporting individuals to adult day cares, physical therapy centers or other vital destinations.
In California, Medi-Cal oversees NEMT services, ensuring they're available when a Medicaid recipient's medical condition makes public or private transportation impractical. This policy means only those meeting specific criteria can access NEMT assistance. Public transportation is considered a typical option, which affects the program's size and reach. Medi-Cal assumes existing services can handle most Medicaid transport needs, impacting both fee-for-service and managed care enrollees across 30 counties. Health plans also adhere to these guidelines when authorizing medical transportation for Medicaid recipients.
Here are some fast California facts according to the report State-by-State Profiles for Examining the Effects of Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Brokerages on Transportation Coordination:
In California, NEMT providers receive payment through several methods under the Medi-Cal (California's Medicaid program):
Providers in California must comply with Medi-Cal billing guidelines and procedures when submitting claims for reimbursement. For detailed information and specific requirements, providers should refer to the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), Medi-Cal Managed Care Division or their contracted MCO.
By thoroughly researching the California NEMT market, you'll lay a solid foundation for launching and scaling (and surfing) up your business. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we'll guide you through crafting a comprehensive business plan tailored to California's regulatory framework and market dynamics. Or want to go back to skip ahead via the series’ table of contents here.
Some say the West Coast is the best coast. Well, Californians won’t brag, they’ll take a beat from Bambi and warmly welcome you with a kind-hearted shimmering smile or a simple “Surf’s up!”
The Golden State is known for its stunning coastline, diverse culture and endless opportunities, California beckons business folk and vacationers with its blend of innovation and natural beauty. From the sandy shores of San Diego to the majestic redwoods of Northern California, the state offers a dynamic backdrop for your entrepreneurial journey. Whether you're drawn to the bustling tech hubs of Silicon Valley, the entertainment industry in Los Angeles or the agricultural heartland of the Central Valley, California's diverse landscape presents plenty of prospects for launching your non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) business.
To add to its wild and wondrous landscape are the many diverse people that call it home. California stands as the most populous state in the United States, with over 39 million residents. In fact, California is poised to become one of the fastest-growing states in the nation in terms of total population. As of 2016, the state accounted for 12 percent of the nation's population and is projected to grow by 30 percent by the year 2060, adding another approximately 11.7 million people to its population.
Its vast and varied population includes a significant number of seniors, urban dwellers and rural communities, each with distinct transportation needs. This demographic diversity underscores a high demand for reliable NEMT services statewide. Understanding and addressing these transportation needs is key to establishing a successful NEMT business that caters to the health and mobility of California's residents.
And with nearly 16% of the state’s population being 65 or older — and the California Department of Finance projecting about one in four Californians to be 65 or older by 2040 — the demand for quality healthcare and transportation services is substantial. Additionally, California attracts a large number of seasonal residents and tourists throughout the year, further increasing the need for accessible transportation solutions.
All in all, navigating California's complex regulatory landscape and leveraging local market insights will be crucial to your business's success. So take this first big step from us and read up all on starting your own biz in Cali through our "Bambi Knows Best" series. We'll guide you through every step of launching your certified NEMT business in the Golden State. From conducting thorough market research and crafting a robust business plan to navigating state regulations, securing funding, building your fleet, hiring and training your team and integrating essential technology solutions, including our advanced software, we're here to support you every hoof of the way.
We also encourage you to engage with local consultants and network with fellow NEMT business owners across California to gain valuable insights and build a supportive community. At Bambi, we believe in fostering collaboration and camaraderie among industry peers to enhance service delivery and community impact.
Below is an overview of the comprehensive guide designed to assist you in navigating the specific requirements and opportunities in California:
With determination and the right resources (starting with the above), you're well on your way to building a thriving NEMT business in the Golden State. Let's embark on this journey together — you've got this!
