NEMT Live Action! | Latest Innovations in Vehicles & Securement | NEMT Experts Podcast Episode 45

Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda and Model1's John Maselli walkthrough with Oli Davalos and Morad Rahmani of Q'STRAINT, a live tour of the ProMaster 3500 and latest innovation the Ambulok in mobility securement devices allowing for stretcher, wheelchair, and ambulatory passenger in one van. Later in the episode Nirav takes a stretcher journey and the group returns to see the Ambulok in action inside a Rear-Entry Wheelchair Minivan that allows for stretchers to be secured in smaller vehicles.

See the full interview on YouTube.

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Podcast Show Notes:

In a recent NEMT Experts podcast episode, Nirav Chheda, CEO of Bambi, and John Maselli from Model 1 Commercial Vehicles discussed the innovative ProMaster 3500 vehicle, a converted Braunability vehicle that's revolutionizing non-emergency medical transportation. This unique vehicle combines the best features of a minivan, full-size van, and bus, creating what Maselli humorously described as a "Frankenstein baby" of transportation.

Key Features of the ProMaster 3500

• The ProMaster 3500 from Braunability stands out with its low-floor design, a feature borrowed from Braun's pioneering work with low-floor minivans. This design includes a 32-inch wide swing-out manual ramp with an impressive 1000-pound weight capacity, making it easily accessible for both ambulatory passengers and those using wheelchairs1.
• One of the most remarkable aspects of this vehicle is its versatility. As Nirav pointed out, "This vehicle can hold a wheelchair and a stretcher at the same time, correct for any empty businesses that need diversity in holding multiple passengers, like different transport types." This capability, combined with additional seating for ambulatory passengers, makes the ProMaster 3500 an incredibly flexible option for transportation providers.
• The ProMaster 3500 doesn't just excel in versatility; it also sets a new standard for safety in non-emergency medical transportation. The vehicle is equipped with Q’Straint securements, including a seven-point securement system for wheelchair passengers. This system uses sliding click attachments and an integrated shoulder belt, ensuring maximum safety and ease of use.
• Perhaps the most exciting safety feature is the new Ambulok system. Oli Davalos, another guest on the podcast, explained that the Ambulok has been crash tested to meet the highest standards." She further elaborated on its unique design: "If you realize we are transferring the mode from the patient onto the compatibility bracket, which then gets transferred, in essence, you are really managing the energy in the event of an accident."

The Future of NEMT

• The podcast concluded with an exciting announcement about a new product: a BraunAbility full cut rear entry minivan based on the Chrysler Voyager. This vehicle will incorporate the Ambulok lock system, providing a safe solution for stretcher transport in a minivan format. As Maselli enthusiastically stated, "For years, people have been asking for the safest solution possible for a stretcher minivan, and while in the past, a lot of the antler and grab bar systems have been used, we're excited to announce that we're able to now use Ambulok in this vehicle as well."
• This development represents a significant step forward in making medical transportation more accessible and safer, even in smaller vehicles. It's clear that companies like BraunAbility, Model 1, and Q’Straint are at the forefront of innovation in this crucial field, continually pushing the boundaries of what's possible in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT).

In conclusion, the ProMaster 3500 and the upcoming stretcher minivan from BraunAbility and Model 1 are set to transform the landscape of medical transportation with the Q’Straint Ambulok, offering unprecedented levels of versatility, safety, and efficiency. As the industry continues to evolve, these vehicles will undoubtedly play a crucial role in ensuring that patients of all mobility levels can be transported safely and comfortably.

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NEMT Broker: GATRA

Who is GATRA?

GATRA (Greater Attleboro Taunton Regional Transit Authority) serves as both a local broker and a partner in providing NEMT (non-emergency medical transportation) services in Southeastern Massachusetts and Cape Cod. GATRA acts as an intermediary, connecting individuals who require transportation to medical appointments and other healthcare services with qualified transportation providers. By joining GATRA's network, NEMT providers gain access to a steady stream of potential clients and trips, reducing the burden of finding clients on their own. GATRA also offers support and resources to providers, such as training and access to the QRyde platform for streamlined scheduling and dispatching. In essence, GATRA represents a valuable opportunity for NEMT providers to expand their business, access new clients, and contribute to providing essential transportation services within the communities they serve.

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What area does GATRA cover?

GATRA covers 30 communities in Southeastern Massachusetts, including of the cities of Attleboro and Taunton and the towns of Bellingham, Berkley, Carver, Dighton, Duxbury, Foxborough, Franklin, Halifax, Hanover, Kingston, Lakeville, Mansfield, Marshfield, Medway, Middleborough, Norfolk, North Attleborough, Norton, Pembroke, Plainville, Plymouth, Plympton, Raynham, Rehoboth, Scituate, Seekonk, Wareham, and Wrentham.

How can Transportation Providers or NEMT Providers Join GATRA's NEMT Network?

 To join GATRA's NEMT network, a transportation provider needs to meet certain requirements and then follow these steps:

Requirements:

• The organization must be registered with the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.  
• The organization must provide a “Certificate of Good Standing” from the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts which proves good tax standing.  
• The organization must have an office or branch that operates in or near GATRA territory.

Steps to Join:

1. Meet the Minimum Requirements: Ensure that your organization fulfills the requirements listed above.
2. Request Application: Email Inquiries@gatra.org with the subject line "application" to obtain the Human Service Transportation Provider Application.
3. Fill out Application: Complete the application form thoroughly and accurately.
4. Submit Application: Send the completed application back to GATRA.
5. Await Review and Approval: GATRA will review your application and notify you of their decision.

Note: GATRA only accepts applications via email.

Apply to the GATRA Network: 

https://www.gatra.org/becoming-a-provider/

“Apply to Join the GATRA NEMT Network”

Why NEMT Providers Should Consider GATRA?

NEMT providers should consider joining GATRA's network for a variety of compelling reasons. First and foremost, GATRA acts as a reliable source of clients and trips, ensuring a steady stream of business for providers. This eliminates the need for extensive marketing and client acquisition efforts, allowing providers to focus on delivering quality service. Additionally, GATRA offers valuable support and resources, including training and access to the QRyde platform, streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency. By partnering with GATRA, NEMT providers gain the opportunity to expand their reach within the Southeastern Massachusetts and Cape Cod communities, contributing to essential transportation services while also benefiting from a well-established and supportive network.

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NEMT Broker: Sentry

Who is Sentry?

Sentry for NEMT providers is a transportation broker and management company that helps connect NEMT providers with clients who need non-emergency medical transportation. They offer a full cycle of services including:  

• Client Referral and Trip Management: Sentry helps NEMT providers find and manage clients, ensuring a steady stream of business.  
• Technology and Support: Sentry provides free access to top-of-the-line dispatch systems and full-time support to train, monitor, and assist with NEMT services.  
• Network Management: Sentry manages a large network of transportation providers, helping to ensure that clients receive the best possible service.  
• Cost Savings: Sentry helps NEMT providers reduce costs by streamlining operations and providing access to discounts on services.

Overall, Sentry can be a valuable partner for NEMT providers who are looking to grow their business and provide high-quality service to their clients.

What area does Sentry cover?

Sentry's primary focus for NEMT services is New York City, New York.  They have connections within the NYC healthcare system and transportation network, suggesting a concentration in that area.

How can Transportation Providers or NEMT Providers Join Sentry's NEMT Network?

Joining the Sentry NEMT network can provide your business with a steady stream of clients and trips, access to technology and support, and potential cost savings. To join the Sentry NEMT network, you need to follow these steps:

1. Express Interest: Visit their website and click on the "Interested in joining the Sentry Network? Click Here!" link.
2. Fill Out the Form: This will likely lead you to a form where you'll need to provide information about your company, vehicles, and services.
3. Wait for Contact: Sentry will review your information and get in touch with you if they're interested in onboarding you to their network.

Important Notes:

• Sentry primarily focuses on the New York City area for NEMT services. Make sure your company operates in or near this region.  
• Ensure your company and vehicles meet all necessary licensing and insurance requirements.
• Be prepared to provide details about your fleet size, vehicle types, and available services.

Apply to the Sentry Network: 

https://nemt.sentryms.com/register/index

“Apply to Join the Sentry NEMT Network”

Why NEMT Providers Should Consider Sentry?

NEMT Providers should strongly consider partnering with Sentry to unlock substantial growth and operational efficiency within their businesses. Sentry serves as a reliable bridge between providers and a vast network of clients in need of non-emergency medical transportation, eliminating the constant struggle for trip acquisition. By leveraging Sentry's robust platform, providers gain access to a steady stream of pre-qualified trips, allowing them to focus on delivering exceptional service rather than chasing down new business opportunities.

Additionally, Sentry empowers NEMT providers with cutting-edge technology and comprehensive support. Their advanced dispatch system streamlines operations, enabling seamless trip management and real-time communication. Furthermore, Sentry's dedicated support team provides ongoing training and assistance, ensuring providers are equipped to navigate any challenges and maximize their success. By joining the Sentry network, NEMT providers position themselves for sustainable growth, enhanced efficiency, and a superior service experience for both their business and their clients.

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NEMT Broker: Ride to Care

Who is Ride to Care?

For NEMT providers in Oregon, Ride to Care represents a significant source of client referrals and a streamlined reimbursement process. As a program under Health Share of Oregon, Ride to Care facilitates non-emergency medical transportation for eligible Medicaid members within Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington counties. Essentially, it acts as a bridge between NEMT providers and individuals who need transportation assistance to access healthcare services.  

By partnering with Ride to Care, NEMT providers can tap into a steady stream of potential clients, eliminating the need for extensive marketing and outreach efforts. The program handles the complexities of scheduling and dispatching, ensuring that providers receive timely trip requests and detailed client information. Moreover, Ride to Care simplifies the reimbursement process, allowing providers to receive payment directly from the program, reducing administrative burdens and improving cash flow.

In essence, Ride to Care presents NEMT providers in Oregon with an opportunity to expand their client base, optimize their operations, and contribute to a vital community service. By joining the Ride to Care network, providers can focus on delivering quality transportation services, confident in the knowledge that they have a reliable partner handling the administrative and logistical aspects of their business.

What area does Ride to Care cover?

Ride to Care in Oregon covers Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington counties, also known as the tri-county area.

How can Transportation Providers or NEMT Providers Join Ride to Care's NEMT Network?

NEMT providers interested in joining the Ride to Care network in Oregon need to go through an application and onboarding process managed by Ride Connection, the organization responsible for overseeing the network of transportation providers for Ride to Care. By partnering with Ride to Care, NEMT providers gain access to a steady stream of clients, streamlined trip management, and reliable reimbursement, contributing to the essential transportation needs of the community.  

Here's a breakdown of the process:

1. Contact Ride Connection: Reach out to Ride Connection directly to express your interest in becoming a provider. You can find their contact information on their website or through the Ride to Care website.  
2. Complete the Application: Ride Connection will provide you with an application packet. This will likely include details about your company, vehicles, insurance coverage, driver qualifications, and other relevant information.
3. Meet the Requirements: Ensure you meet all the necessary requirements set by Ride Connection and Ride to Care. These might include vehicle inspections, driver background checks, specific training certifications, and insurance minimums.  
4. Training and Onboarding: Once your application is approved, you'll likely undergo training on Ride to Care's policies, procedures, and the technology platform they use.
5. Start Receiving Trip Requests: After successfully completing the onboarding process, you'll be integrated into the Ride to Care network and can start receiving trip requests through their system.
   
   

Notes:

• Focus on the Tri-County Area: Ride to Care primarily operates in Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington counties. Make sure your service area aligns with their coverage.  
• Maintain High Standards: Ride to Care emphasizes quality service, so ensure your vehicles are well-maintained, your drivers are professional and courteous, and you adhere to all safety and compliance regulations.

Apply to the Ride to Care Network: 

https://ridetocare.com/drivers-1

“Apply to Join the Ride to Care NEMT Network”

Why NEMT Providers Should Consider Ride to Care?

NEMT Providers in Oregon should seriously consider partnering with Ride to Care for several strategic advantages. First and foremost, Ride to Care provides access to a consistent and reliable stream of clients through its affiliation with Health Share of Oregon, ensuring a steady demand for NEMT services. This eliminates the need for providers to invest significant resources in marketing and client acquisition, allowing them to focus on core service delivery.  

Additionally, Ride to Care streamlines operations by handling the complexities of trip scheduling, dispatching, and billing. This reduces administrative burdens and improves efficiency, enabling providers to allocate their resources more effectively. The program also offers timely and transparent reimbursement, minimizing financial uncertainties and promoting healthy cash flow for providers.  

Finally, by partnering with Ride to Care, NEMT providers in Oregon play a crucial role in fulfilling a vital community need. They contribute to improving healthcare access for vulnerable populations, enhancing health outcomes and quality of life for countless individuals. This partnership not only fosters business growth and stability but also positions providers as valuable contributors to the well-being of their communities.

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NEMT Broker: Bay Cities Brokerage

Who is Bay Cities Brokerage?

Bay Cities Brokerage in Oregon serves as a vital link to a consistent stream of clients and trips. As a non-emergency medical transportation broker, they specialize in connecting transportation providers with individuals in need of rides to medical appointments and other healthcare services. By partnering with Bay Cities Brokerage, NEMT providers gain access to a wider client base, eliminating the need for extensive marketing and outreach efforts.

Moreover, Bay Cities Brokerage streamlines the administrative aspects of NEMT operations, handling trip scheduling, dispatching, and billing processes. This allows providers to focus on delivering quality transportation services without getting bogged down in paperwork. Their commitment to efficient and reliable transportation coordination further enhances the provider experience, promoting a positive and productive working relationship.

Bay Cities Brokerage acts as a valuable partner for NEMT providers, offering a bridge to a broader clientele, simplifying administrative tasks, and enabling them to concentrate on their core competency: providing safe and timely transportation for those in need. This mutually beneficial partnership facilitates business growth for providers while ensuring that individuals receive the crucial transportation services they require to access healthcare.

What area does Bay Cities Brokerage cover?

Bay Cities Brokerage primarily covers Western Oregon. They specifically mention serving members, healthcare facilities, and transportation providers in that region with their convenient and timely medical transportation services.

More precisely, they are responsible for arranging NEMT services for members of Advanced Health, the Coordinated Care Organization (CCO) for Coos & Curry Counties.

How can Transportation Providers or NEMT Providers Join Bay Cities Brokerage's NEMT Network?

By joining Bay Cities Brokerage's network, NEMT providers can gain access to a steady stream of clients, simplify their administrative tasks, and contribute to providing essential transportation services in their community.NEMT providers interested in joining Bay Cities Brokerage's network can do so by following these steps:

1. Visit the Website: Go to the Bay Cities Brokerage website.
2. Submit the Online Application: Fill out the online application form with all the required details about your company, vehicles, insurance, and driver qualifications.  
3. Await Review: Bay Cities Brokerage will review your application.  
4. Potential Partnership Discussion: If your application is approved, their Brokerage Administrator will contact you to discuss a potential partnership.  

Key Points to Remember:

• Bay Cities Brokerage focuses on Western Oregon, particularly serving members of Advanced Health in Coos & Curry Counties. Ensure your service area aligns with theirs.  
• They prioritize high-quality transportation services, so ensure your company, vehicles, and drivers meet their standards. 
• Be prepared to provide detailed information about your company and its capabilities during the application process.

Apply to the Bay Cities Brokerage Network: 

https://bca-ride.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/BCB-Vendor-Application-1.pdf

“Apply to Join the Bay Cities Brokerage NEMT Network”

Why NEMT Providers Should Consider Bay Cities Brokerage?

NEMT Providers in Western Oregon should consider partnering with Bay Cities Brokerage for several key advantages. Primarily, they offer a reliable source of client referrals, particularly for those serving Advanced Health members in Coos & Curry Counties. This steady stream of potential clients reduces the need for extensive marketing and outreach efforts, allowing providers to focus on delivering quality transportation services.

Furthermore, Bay Cities Brokerage streamlines administrative tasks by handling trip scheduling, dispatching, and billing, freeing up providers to concentrate on their core operations. Their expertise in transportation coordination ensures efficient and timely service, enhancing the overall experience for both providers and clients.

In essence, partnering with Bay Cities Brokerage offers NEMT providers in Western Oregon an opportunity to expand their client base, optimize their workflow, and contribute to providing essential transportation services within their communities. By collaborating with a reputable and experienced broker like Bay Cities, providers can achieve greater business stability and growth while positively impacting the lives of individuals in need of reliable medical transportation.

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NEMT Broker: Secure Transportation

Who is Secure Transportation?

For NEMT providers, Secure Transportation acts as a broker and logistical partner. They essentially connect NEMT providers with clients who need non-emergency medical transportation services, streamlining the process and ensuring a steady flow of business for providers.  Secure Transportation provides NEMT providers with valuable resources and support to help them grow their business, improve efficiency, and deliver high-quality care to their clients.

Here's a breakdown of how they support NEMT providers:

• Client Acquisition and Trip Management: Secure Transportation partners with health plans and healthcare organizations to identify individuals who require NEMT services. They then match these clients with suitable providers within their network, handling the scheduling and dispatching processes. This saves providers the time and effort of finding clients themselves.  
• Nationwide Network: Secure Transportation boasts a nationwide network of partner fleets, allowing them to offer services across the United States. This broad reach enables NEMT providers to access a wider range of clients and trips, potentially expanding their business opportunities.  
• Fleet Management and Coordination: They act as a central point of contact for all stakeholders, managing schedules, processing claims, and ensuring compliance with state and CMS regulations. This centralized coordination streamlines operations for providers, allowing them to focus on providing quality service.  
• "Through the Door" Approach: Secure Transportation emphasizes a personalized and compassionate approach to member care. Their "through the door" philosophy goes beyond simple door-to-door service, ensuring members receive assistance and support throughout their journey. This reflects positively on the providers they partner with.  

What area does Secure Transportation cover?

Secure Transportation covers that state of California and also across the US for NEMT.

How can Transportation Providers or NEMT Providers Join Secure Transportation's NEMT Network?

To join Secure Transportation's NEMT network in California, you can follow these steps:

1. Visit the Secure Transportation website: Go to the Secure Transportation "Become a Partner" website.
2. Complete the online application: Fill out the online application form with all the required details about your company, vehicles, insurance, and driver qualifications.
3. Await review: Secure Transportation will review your application and contact you if they are interested in moving forward.
4. Pre-qualification process: If your initial application is accepted, you will be invited to participate in a more comprehensive pre-qualification process. This may involve additional documentation, interviews, and reference checks.
5. Contract negotiation: Once you have successfully passed the pre-qualification process, you will be invited to negotiate a contract with Secure Transportation.
6. Onboarding and training: Upon finalizing the contract, you will go through an onboarding and training process to familiarize yourself with Secure Transportation's systems and procedures.

Here are some key points to remember when applying to join Secure Transportation's NEMT network:

• Ensure you meet all the requirements: Secure Transportation has strict requirements for its partner providers, so make sure your company and vehicles meet their standards.
• Be prepared to provide detailed information: The application process is thorough, so be prepared to provide detailed information about your company, operations, and capabilities.
• Build strong relationships: Secure Transportation values strong relationships with its partners, so be prepared to build a positive and collaborative relationship with their team.

Apply to the Secure Transportation Network: 

https://www.securetransportation.com/join-our-team/partner-application/

“Apply to Join the Secure Transportation NEMT Network”

Why NEMT Providers Should Consider Secure Transportation?

NEMT Providers in California should seriously consider partnering with Secure Transportation for several strategic benefits. First and foremost, Secure Transportation offers access to a vast network of clients and trips through its collaborations with health plans and healthcare organizations across the state. This eliminates the need for providers to invest significant resources in marketing and client acquisition, allowing them to focus on core service delivery.

Additionally, Secure Transportation streamlines operations through efficient fleet management and centralized coordination. They handle trip scheduling, dispatching, billing, and compliance, reducing administrative burden for providers and ensuring a seamless experience for clients. Their "Through the Door" approach emphasizes a compassionate and personalized service, reflecting positively on the providers within their network.

Finally, Secure Transportation's nationwide presence provides potential opportunities for expansion beyond California, opening doors for providers seeking to broaden their reach. Their commitment to quality, compliance, and exceptional member care makes them a valuable partner for NEMT providers in California, offering a pathway to increased business, operational efficiency, and a positive impact on the communities they serve.

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NEMT Broker: Tennessee Carriers

Who is Tennessee Carriers?

For NEMT providers, Tennessee Carriers serves as a crucial link between their services and the individuals who need them. It acts as the primary NEMT broker for TennCare, Tennessee's Medicaid program. This means they are responsible for managing and coordinating non-emergency medical transportation for eligible TennCare members across the state.  

In simpler terms, Tennessee Carriers functions as a bridge, connecting NEMT providers with patients who require transportation to medical appointments and other healthcare services. They handle the logistics of scheduling rides, dispatching vehicles, and ensuring timely and reliable service. This allows NEMT providers to focus on what they do best – providing safe and efficient transportation.  

Being the largest NEMT broker in the state, Tennessee Carriers offers providers access to a substantial pool of potential clients. This streamlines the process of securing trips and generating revenue, particularly for smaller providers who may struggle with marketing and client acquisition.  

Tennessee Carriers is a crucial player in the NEMT landscape of Tennessee. They serve as a vital partner for providers, facilitating efficient service delivery and ensuring that TennCare members can access the necessary healthcare services.

What area does Tennessee Carriers cover?

Tennessee Carriers covers the state of Tennessee as a broker of NEMT services.

How can Transportation Providers or NEMT Providers Join Tennessee Carriers's NEMT Network?

To join Tennessee Carriers' NEMT Network, transportation providers can follow these steps:

1. Download the Application: Visit the Tennessee Carriers website and locate the "NEMT" section. There you will find a link to download the "Prospective NEMT Transporter Information Form."  
2. Complete the Application Thoroughly: Fill out all sections of the application form accurately and completely. Pay special attention to ensuring the accuracy of the State Specialty Code, which can be found in the list provided using your Taxonomy Code.  
3. Submit the Application: Once completed, send the application form via email to contracts@tenncarriers.com. Alternatively, you can fax the form to (901) 339-2182.  
4. Await Review and Selection: Tennessee Carriers will review your application. Note that not all applicants will be accepted. Selection is based on network needs, provider capabilities, experience, and location.

Key Points to Remember:

• Accurate Information is Crucial: Incomplete or inaccurate applications will not be considered.
• TennCare Registration is Necessary: Follow the instructions in the Provider Information Packet to verify your TennCare registration.
• Selection is Not Guaranteed: Tennessee Carriers carefully selects partners based on specific criteria to ensure high-quality service standards.  

Joining Tennessee Carriers' NEMT Network, transportation providers gain the opportunity to:

• Access a large pool of potential clients through TennCare.
• Streamline operations and focus on providing safe and reliable transportation.
• Contribute to improving healthcare access for TennCare members.

Apply to the Tennessee Carriers Network: 

https://tenncarriers.com/nemt/

“Apply to Join the Tennessee Carriers NEMT Network”

Why NEMT Providers Should Consider Tennessee Carriers?

Tennessee Carriers acts as the central hub for NEMT providers in Tennessee, connecting them with TennCare members who need rides to medical appointments. They streamline the entire process, from scheduling and dispatching to billing, allowing providers to concentrate on delivering safe and reliable transportation.

Partnering with Tennessee Carriers offers numerous advantages for NEMT providers. They provide access to a large pool of potential clients, ensure timely payments, and reduce administrative burdens. This enables providers to expand their businesses, optimize operations, and play a crucial role in improving healthcare access for TennCare members across the state.

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NEMT Broker: Provide a Ride

Who is Provide a Ride?

Provide A Ride serves as a valuable broker and transportation management partner in the state of Ohio. They connect NEMT providers with clients who require non-emergency medical transportation services, streamlining the process of acquiring new business. 

By joining Provide A Ride's network, NEMT providers can focus on their core competency - providing safe and reliable transportation - while leaving the client acquisition and administrative tasks to a trusted partner.

Key points about Provide A Ride for NEMT providers:

• Brokerage Services: They act as an intermediary, matching NEMT providers with eligible individuals who need rides to medical appointments and other healthcare services.  
• Transportation Management: Provide A Ride handles various aspects of the transportation process, including scheduling, dispatching, and billing, allowing providers to focus on delivering quality service.  
• Statewide Coverage: They operate throughout Ohio, providing opportunities for NEMT providers in various regions to expand their client base.  
• Established Reputation: With a history dating back to 1989, they have a strong reputation within the healthcare and NEMT communities in Ohio.  
• Understanding of Provider Needs: They claim to understand the challenges and opportunities faced by NEMT providers, having experience in the industry themselves.  

Overall, Provide A Ride can be a valuable partner for NEMT providers in Ohio who are looking to:

• Increase their client base
• Streamline their operations
• Benefit from a well-established network

What area does Provide a Ride cover?

Provide A Ride covers the state of Ohio as a broker of NEMT services.

How can Transportation Providers or NEMT Providers Join Provide a Ride's NEMT Network?

To join Provide A Ride's NEMT network, transportation providers need to follow these steps:

1. Click the Application Link: On their "Become a Vendor" page, click the provided link to access their online application form.
2. Complete the Application: Fill out all sections of the application form with accurate and complete information about your company, vehicles, drivers, and services.
3. Submit the Application: Once completed, the form will be automatically sent to vendorsupport@providearide.com.
4. Await Review and Selection: Provide A Ride will review all applications and select new vendors based on their network needs, vendor capabilities, experience, and location.

Key Points to Remember:

• Meet the Requirements: Ensure your company and drivers meet their standards, including operating well-maintained vehicles, employing well-trained professional drivers, and providing safe, efficient, and timely service.
• Maintain Compliance: Be prepared to demonstrate ongoing compliance with all performance standards related to insurance, drivers, and vehicles.
• Fulfill Reporting Requirements: Timely and accurate submission of various reports, such as customer complaints, accidents/incidents, and regulatory requirements, is essential.
• Not All Applicants are Accepted: Provide A Ride selects new vendors based on their specific needs and criteria.

By partnering with Provide A Ride, NEMT providers in Ohio can access a vast network of clients, streamline their operations, and contribute to providing essential transportation services within their communities.

Apply to the Provide a Ride Network: 

https://na1.documents.adobe.com/public/esignWidget?wid=CBFCIBAA3AAABLblqZhDgheOkGHUxJyrlTOuWezLNuMPa3T65Mb4LS9MvZ8YwYoa8oN6U2FjdPFwla7-eSpw*

“Apply to Join the Provide a Ride NEMT Network”

Why NEMT Providers Should Consider Provide a Ride?

NEMT Providers in Ohio should consider partnering with Provide A Ride for several key reasons that can contribute to the success and growth of their businesses:

• Steady Stream of Clients: As the largest Medicaid transportation broker in Ohio, Provide A Ride offers access to a vast network of potential clients, ensuring a consistent flow of trip requests and reducing the need for providers to invest time and resources in marketing and client acquisition.
• Operational Efficiency: By handling scheduling, dispatching, and billing, Provide A Ride streamlines administrative tasks, freeing up providers to focus on delivering quality transportation services and optimizing their core operations.
• Industry Expertise and Support: With a long history in the NEMT industry, Provide A Ride understands the unique challenges and needs of providers. Their experience enables them to offer tailored support and guidance, fostering a collaborative and successful partnership.
• Statewide Coverage: Their extensive network and presence throughout Ohio present opportunities for providers to expand their service areas and reach a broader clientele.
• Emphasis on Quality and Compliance: Provide A Ride's stringent standards and focus on compliance ensure that providers maintain high-quality service levels, mitigating risks and building a strong reputation within the industry.

Overall, partnering with Provide A Ride can offer NEMT providers in Ohio a valuable pathway to business growth, operational efficiency, and a meaningful contribution to their community by facilitating access to vital healthcare services.

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Safest Wheelchair and Stretcher Securement with Q'STRAINT | NEMT Experts Podcast Episode 44

Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda and Model1's John Maselli talk with Darren Reaume and Oli Davalos of Q'STRAINT, a leading producer of wheelchair and stretcher securement systems, about the best practices and latest innovation the Ambulok in mobility securement devices.

See the full interview on YouTube. 

Please don't forget to subscribe and like NEMT Experts Podcast 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.

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Podcast Show Notes:

The NEMT Experts podcast episode highlights the crucial role of proper securement and training in ensuring passenger safety in the non-emergency medical transport industry. Q'Straint's commitment to innovation and training, along with their new products like Ambulok, aim to address the evolving challenges of transporting passengers with disabilities and improve safety standards in the industry.

Key Takeaways:

• Q'Straint's Mission: Making safety accessible in transportation for passengers with mobility devices.
• Securement Challenges: Transporting passengers with disabilities involves complex scenarios due to the wide variety of mobility devices and the fact that many aren't designed for transport.
• Importance of Training: Wheelchair and stretcher securement requires comprehensive training for operators due to the diversity of devices and securement situations.
• Q'Straint Training Resources: Q'Straint offers various training options, including on-demand courses, webinars, and a national training center, to address the challenges of operator turnover and ensure passenger safety.
• Ambuloc Innovation: The Ambuloc system provides a safe and flexible solution for transporting both wheelchairs and stretchers, meeting the latest crash testing standards and addressing a gap in the non-emergency medical transport industry.
• Prioritizing Safety: Emphasizes the importance of securement training, proper equipment use, and sufficient loading/unloading times to avoid accidents and injuries.
• Future of Securement: Q'Straint focuses on developing new products that simplify and expedite the securement process, making it easier for operators and improving passenger safety.

Interesting Quotes:

• Darren Reaume: "We like to fill in the gap that once they're accessible, who's thinking about providing the same level of safety to those passengers using mobility devices or mobility products that vehicle manufacturers are thinking about providing for the ambulatory passengers?"
• Darren Reaume: "The vast majority of wheelchair incidents are not accidents. They're not an accident where someone is injured. It's routine driving where someone has not secured the chair properly."
• John Maselli: "If you're going to go and buy the best product out there in the market...none of that means anything if you're not using it properly, right? So you know, where's the safety at that point?"
• Oli Davalos: "The equipment that's currently in our industry, the non-emergency transport industry, hasn't gotten bad, per se, but it's not really the equipment that is blessed by the latest EMS regulations. And so if that's the system that we're using, we have a long way to catch up. That's really what we try to do with AmbuloK."