
So the 4Ws of NEMTreprenuership from part one solidified your calling to keep caretaking, but pivoting to do so more in a business sense. Awesome! The NEMT industry could benefit from more driven and heart-felt folks like you! We’ll be honest, though, starting any business from scratch isn’t easy, but it’s always worth it.
Becoming an NEMTrepreneur requires careful planning, understanding of the market, being and staying compliant with the different rules and regulations and providing high-quality services to your customers. It is a lot to juggle, especially in the beginning, but just like Bambi we believe in your nimbleness to navigate it all with your swift and agile business skills.
And with Bambi (our NEMT Software and community) on your side, we’re confident you’ll succeed in no time. Without further ado, in this second part of the series, we’ll give you our top ten tried and tested tips in starting an NEMT biz:
That’s it folks! We realize this might feel like one big homework assignment or ten, but it’s always important to take it slow and steady in the beginning. Give yourself some compassion like you do your customers. Build up your confidence, supportive community and the foundational software to get you flowing with ease and fun in this new fulfilling endeavor.
And if this all still feels like a lot, know there’s always support from our community of dears on the road already successfully running their NEMT businesses. There are also plenty of NEMT coaches out there eager to empower you and hold you accountable along the way as you get started.
We believe in you! And whenever you need a hoof or hand, just reach out to us at Bambi.

Perhaps you’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit and a calling to do something more with your caregiving career, but haven’t known exactly how or when to make that pivot. Or maybe you’ve already decided it’s time to swap your scrubs for some software and become a non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) business owner.
Regardless of where you’re at on your NEMTreprenuer journey, we’re here to help set you up for success from our fun-in-one easy to use NEMT Software that streamlines the hard work of scheduling, dispatching and fleet management to providing you with heartware (a.k.a. tips and tools through our podcast on YouTube & Spotify and blog of industry insights) so you can learn from our community of dears on the road who are already thriving in their own NEMT businesses.
To stay true to our promise in setting you up with success, here are providing you with a two-part NEMTreprenuer guide to getting started. In this first part, we’ll begin walking you through the 4 Ws before approaching the how-tos. It’s always good to get our Ws covered first so you can understand at a higher-level exactly why one might want to go all in with the N, E, M and T.
In the second part, will dive into the how-to make the magic of following your dream to be an NEMTreprenuer happen. We love that magical sparkle dust, we’re named after a Disney character after all. Without further ado, let’s get to those Ws.
An NEMTreprenuer is an entrepreneur in the non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) industry. This is someone who runs their own NEMT business or more. Yup, there are such things as serial ENTrepreneurs out there, too! Those folks are scaling their NEMT businesses and some are even franchising them, too.
Anywhere there’s infrastructure in place for roads and a community of people living in the vicinity with the need for transport support to and from their medical appointments is a great place to start an NEMT business. Sure, NEMT businesses can succeed in many places, but it’s best if there’s already a demand for the service and the infrastructure in place to support transportation logistics.
In fact, we’ve noticed some of the most successful NEMT businesses are born out of rural areas with little access to public transportation, and are also in communities where there are many elderly folk often in need of medical care. And when you combine the two you’ve got the makings of a booming NEMT business.
There isn’t one characteristic or type of person that goes into the NEMT business. But from our experience, we’ve found these folks tend to have a soft soul for supporting their communities, taking care of people in need and have a heart spot for hard work and hustle. They’re business-minded folks who love to dig into the heartwork from the ground up.
There are many reasons why people go into this NEMT business, but some of the biggest reasons are the following:

They say first comes love, then comes marriage and sometimes a baby comes in a carriage or in our case a deer with a NEMT van...
So we sing a similar, but different song here — where the lyrics end with a Bambi, in a lush forest full of software code and streets of NEMT gold.
We’re also all about that love being first, too. Most of us at Bambi live in cities where rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft operate so have had the privilege to experience the joy of getting around town, be it in a pinch or on a planned date. These drivers are connected to a super ease-to-use app that allows them to see we need a lift right when we need it. What’s not to love about that?!
Now, before we jump to the wedding (there’s got to be a proposal first, people!), it’s important to know a bit more backstory to add more love to this little love story. And that’s that our co-founders, Nirav Chheda (CEO) and Charles Henik (CTO), both have had personal experiences involving non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services — or lack thereof — in their past. Both understood there were multiple inefficiencies in the NEMT business, many of which were not necessarily to be blamed on human error and life’s inevitable mishaps, but due to the fact that there wasn’t (yet) a savvy enough NEMT Software out on the market for NEMT business owners — nothing quite simple and streamlined enough like Uber, Lyft or for local taxi service owners.
It’s also important to note that at Bambi, we’re passionate people — a bunch of softie software engineers — who care about creating of utmost quality CareTech software. Add passion to any budding romance and you’ve got a marriage coming soon.
And so it’s inevitable. When you combine this fiery passion for care with a pure love for ease-of-use apps like Uber, sparks collide and a proposal to get married would be the viable next step. You know, to lock in that love for the long-haul!
In preparing for the big day (or product launch in tech terms), we at Bambi spent hours upon hours honing our code, design, and app and ship the most innovative in the market: an all-in-one, AI-powered NEMT scheduling and fleet management optimization software designed by humans with care for humans that caretake.
And in marrying the simplicity one might similarly find in the backend of an rideshare app with the NEMT service industry, you get a pretty cute, clever and bushy tailed AI-powered platform that allows NEMT businesses to dispatch, dash and drive — deerly.
And so, there you have it folks. That’s how we at Bambi made a Bambi NEMT platform!

Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda talks with Marina Lofley, Owner/Founder of Crowned Care Transport nd the Founder of "NEMT Network", on dealing with the consistent emotional toll of transporting NEMT passengers.
See the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/UxL9bPXEmqM
Please don't forget to subscribe and like NEMT Experts Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bambihealth
Also, available to watch on Spotify: https://bit.ly/43y8bsM
And listen only on your other favorite podcast platforms Apple, Stitcher, and Google Play.
Nirav Chheda and Marina Lofley, the founder of a non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) business and NEMT Network has a conversation about the emotional aspects and challenges of working in the NEMT field.
Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda talks with Marina Lofley, Owner/Founder of Crowned Care Transport since the age of 22, and the Founder of "NEMT Network", which teaches others how to start and run a NEMT business.
See the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/momdC7JS3LQ
Please don't forget to subscribe and like NEMT Experts Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bambihealth
Also, available to watch on Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bambi-nemt/episodes/NEMT-Experts-Podcast-Episode-20-NEMT-Since-Age-22-e2ha19r
And listen only on your other favorite podcast platforms Apple, Sticher, and Google Play.
Marina's story highlights the realities faced by many NEMT business owners:
Marina runs a successful operation with six vehicles but still works 60-70 hour weeks. This shows the tremendous dedication it takes to thrive in this industry. If you're considering starting an NEMT business, check out Marina's resources on TikTok (@neemtnetwork), her website, and consider reaching out for guidance.

NEMT Scheduling can be a difficult endeavor for even the most experienced NEMT owners, operators, or dispatcher. Every day can bring new challenges and ever changing variables. These problems can cause hours of headaches and efficient operations, especially for those using manual processes or clunky software tools.
NEMT trip requests can come in from many different sources creating confusion. A manual trip intake processes, often involving phone calls, text messages, or emails from care facilities, brokers, caregivers, and even customers themselves. With such a diversity of sources and without a standardized intake system any incomplete or inconsistent information can quickly snowball into problems with scheduling optimal routes, staffing, and the necessary vehicles and equipment for each upcoming trip. It is critical to develop standardized intake procedures and we recommend using digital tools and a platform like Bambi to streamline the process.
No-show customers can disrupt schedules and cause inefficiencies not to mention lost revenue. This is a chief worry for NEMTs especially those new to the industry or working with a new trip request source for the first time. In some cases a no-show can cause a snowball effect and Implementing confirmation procedures, offering incentives for on-time arrivals, and maintaining accurate customer profiles can help minimize no-shows. Additionally, building trust with the trip referral sources and maintaining open lines of communication are important to avoiding non-profitable down time.
Trip cancellations can disrupt schedules and affect revenue. Implementing clear cancellation policies, providing customers with alternative transportation options, and maintaining accurate records of cancellations can help alleviate the impact of any cancellations.
Last-minute trip changes, such as new destinations, pickup points, equipment needs, or additional passengers, can be disruptive. Establishing clear policies for handling changes and maintaining open communication with customers can help mitigate this challenge.
Trip delays caused by customer wait time, traffic, or weather can disrupt schedules and cause inconvenience to customers. Implementing real-time tracking systems, providing regular updates to customers, and establishing contingency plans can help manage delays.
Staff absences due to illness, vacation, or emergencies can disrupt operations. Maintaining a pool of backup drivers and cross-training staff can help ensure uninterrupted service.
Vehicle breakdowns can cause unexpected disruptions. Just like our personal vehicles NEMT vans and vehicles need regular maintenance and preventive inspections can help minimize the risk of breakdowns. These vehicles are even more pushed to the limit by the sheer number of miles, riders, and equipment that move in and out every day. It is important to stress with staff the importance of pre and post trip evaluations and regular preventative maintenance plan. Because without a van, potentially for weeks at a time for serious repairs, NEMT doesn’t run!
Equipment malfunctions can also disrupt operations. Van equipment like ramps or lifts are critical to getting riders safely in and out of the vehicle, especially if they are in a wheelchair or other mobility device. These can cause bottlenecks and safety risks if riders can not enter or leave the vans with assistance from these equipment.Wheelchairs, stretchers, stair climbers, and other mobility devices are also important links in the chain. If these devices malfunction or the safety tie-downs that secure the equipment to the floor while the van is in transit then likewise the van will be stopped and a scheduling delay can occur. It is critical that regular maintenance, and equipment checks are performed regularly and documented. Another step would be to have spare equipment on hand to address this challenge when they arise, and they will! Finally, staff education and training is an essential step in ensuring small malfunctions that could throw off the day are avoided, handled in the field, or quickly addressed to avoid further delays or injuries.
Customer injuries or adverse care events can be a major concern for NEMT providers. Proper training for staff, implementing safety protocols, and maintaining accurate records can help reduce the risk of such incidents.
Staff injuries or adverse care events can also disrupt operations. Ensuring that staff is adequately trained, providing proper safety equipment, and maintaining a supportive work environment can help prevent such incidents.
Addressing these challenges effectively requires a combination of operational strategies, technology solutions, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. By implementing efficient processes, using the right tools, and maintaining open communication with customers, NEMT providers can overcome these challenges and deliver reliable and high-quality transportation services.

The global non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) industry is driving the care-economy well into the future. Many factors come into play for this booming billion dollar business that sits at the crossroads of healthcare and transportation. We summarized three reasons, of what we believe to be the biggest for this boom.
Check out these four must-know NEMT stats to get a hand on the wheel of this four-letter acronym’s upward trajectory.
People — from at-home patients of medical practices to folks with one-off medical needs — need NEMT. Too many Americans do not receive the care required because they cannot make it to their medical appointments — and the reason being: they simply don’t have access to transportation that will get them from A to B. This not only affects their own health and well-being, but that of the entire healthcare system, too.
It’s not just Americans that need the help getting to/from their medical appointments. It’s a global issue, too. The worldwide NEMT market is expected to experience notable expansion, reaching an estimated value of USD 15.58 billion by 2028. Sadly, the demand for NEMT services is on the rise due to the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and a growing geriatric population. (Source: GlobeNewswire, 2023). This underscores the need for additional NEMT providers and an increase in the quality of current NEMT trips to bridge the gap and prepare for this massive additional wave of demand. This is a massive need and opportunity for NEMT providers, governments, care providers, and citizens to unite and ensure this critical service for the next decade.
There are clearly demonstrated cost benefits linked with NEMT services (i.e. faster recovered and healthier patients, less hospital overhead and human resources to name a few). And soon enough, healthcare providers and policymakers will see that it makes sense to consider boosting investments in NEMT in order that providers, patients and the general population benefit wherever and whenever NEMT services are available.
From the healthcare system people and the planet — everyone benefits when NEMT services are provided. It really does increase well-being and accessibility for all. The investment and integration of NEMT service into the healthcare system not only saves lives and money, it makes money, too!
Insurers and governments are becoming more aware of the critical link that NEMT plays in the healthcare ecosystem. The awareness that Investing in quality transportation for citizens and patients continues to proliferate for public options like Medicare and Medicaid at the state level in the US, especially with Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). Rates for trips are set at the individual state and program level depending on several factors like distance, rural or non-rural, and equipment needs (wheelchair, stretcher, etc.).
Currently, unfortunately many states and regions are not providing adequate trip reimbursement rates to truly incentivize and reward NEMT providers for their efforts. However, we think that this is going to change, and forward-thinking NEMT providers and organizations like the Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Accreditation Commision (NEMTAC) and The Transportation Alliance are lobbying local, state, and federal governments to push for industry change.
As far as we can tell, the data above clearly showcases why continued and increased investment in NEMT service providers in 2024 and beyond are so crucial to not only the care economy, but the overall one, too.
Whether you’re a new or veteran NEMT business owner looking to streamline your service, we’ve got the scheduling and management-optimization software for you!
And if you’re keen to get into this lucrative caretaking business, it’s quite obvious that it’s one that’s going to keep driving the economy forward, always providing that job security while you provide security for the clients you take care of.

Starting a non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) business can be a rewarding venture, especially with the growing demand for such services due to an aging population and increasing medical care needs. The following guide will compile key insights from various sources to give you a comprehensive roadmap for launching your successful NEMT business.
We hope this comprehensive guide empowers you to embark on your NEMT business venture with confidence. Remember, this is just a starting point, and further research tailored to your location and target market is essential.
This complete step-by-step guide covers the following:
Need Help? Bambi has you covered! Our comprehensive NEMT management software is tailor made for a new NEMT owner.Bambi is an AI-powered dispatch and scheduling platform for non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) companies, that helps NEMT dispatchers and drivers communicate, optimize trips, and manage their routes and riders in real-time.

Nirav Chheda the CEO of Bambi continues the conversation with Derrick Edwards from Premier Transit on how as an NEMT owner he successfully grew his NEMT business in Mobile, AL and his plans for the future.
See the full interview at: https://youtu.be/DMrCxL1Yb9Q
Missed Part 1, no worries! Go back and see Part 1: https://youtu.be/E2AewXjxJQ4
And then Check out Part 2: https://youtu.be/0pOXrJSSeJA
Please don't forget to subscribe and like NEMT Experts Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@bambihealth
Learn more about Premier Transit in Mobile, AL: https://www.thepremiertransit.com/
The podcast episode is a two part interview with Derek, the owner of Premier Transit, a non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) company. In this part of the interview, Derek talks about his experience growing his business from 1 to 8 vehicles and his plans for the future.
Here are some of the key points from the podcast episode:
00:00 Introduction
00:21 Winning with stretchers
02:51 Organic growth
06:15 Compensate staff right
07:38 Helping other NEMT providers
10:23 Negotiating rates
11:35 Bambi software is needed
16:14 "Run Bambi Run" auto-scheduler
21:30 Bambi is the one