How to Start an NEMT Business in Delaware: A "Bambi Knows Best" State-By-State Series Part 1: Research the Delaware NEMT Market Before you start making moves in Delaware’s NEMT market, it's essential to grasp the state’s healthcare and transportation landscape. From Wilmington’s bustling streets to the serene surroundings of Sussex County (we love a good alliteration at Bambi!), Delaware’s compact but diverse geography shapes the demand for NEMT services. Here’s how to get in and fit in with the Delaware NEMT scene:
1 | Identify Existing NEMT Providers in Delaware
Know your competition and potential collaborators! Delaware’s Medicaid program oversees Medicaid-funded NEMT services, working with brokers to meet state and federal standards. Key providers include:
Modivcare : A major broker coordinating rides for Medicaid recipients statewide.American Logistics : Offers tech-driven NEMT solutions with a focus on efficiency.Delaware Transit Corporation (DART) : Provides some NEMT services and is a key player in the state’s transportation network.Local Providers: Smaller, local companies often serve specific regions, so search for “NEMT providers” plus your county or city for more on the market.Uber Health : Available in select Delaware areas, offering HIPAA-compliant ride scheduling for medical appointments.Check local directories, state resources and online listings to find other NEMT providers across the state, especially in major hubs like Dover and Newark.
2 | Assess the Demand for NEMT Services
Delaware’s healthcare system and aging population create a rather large demand for NEMT. For the latest data, reach out to the Delaware Division of Public Health . Key areas to explore include:
Adult Day Care Centers: Delaware has numerous licensed ADCs catering to seniors needing transportation. It’s best to check with the DDPH for updated information on these — to potentially even provide you with a listing with contact details, too!Dialysis Clinics: Several dialysis centers operate across the state, including those managed by major providers like DaVita and Nephrology Associates at Delaware Kidney Physical Therapy Centers: Widely available, these PTCs offer opportunities for patient transport services. You can consult the Delaware Physical Therapy Association or check with local healthcare providers for more specifics on PTCs in your area.Hospitals: Delaware is peppered with several hospitals, including prominent hospital networks like ChristianaCare .Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities: With a significant and growing senior population, Delaware has many licensed facilities when it comes to nursing homes and skilled living organizations. We suggest reaching out to the DHSS for exact numbers .Outpatient Care Centers: Essential for patient accessibility, often requiring reliable transport, so be sure to contact the local hospitals for listings here as they often are partnered up with OCCs.3 | Decide on a Target Market
Focus on specific demographics such as seniors, individuals with chronic conditions, regular mental health checks or those requiring frequent general medical appointments. Tailoring your services to meet Delaware’s unique healthcare needs will help you stand out in the market and, ultimately, optimize your marketing spend. It’s good to have a niche — to keep things simple and streamlined!
4 | Choose Specific NEMT Services
Decide which services align best with Delaware’s needs — whether it’s rides to general medical appointments, specialized transport for dialysis or mobility solutions for seniors. Finding your niche (as aforementioned above) will help you navigate the competitive landscape and ensure your marketing efforts yield a high ROI.
5 | Understand Medicaid Delivery Models in Delaware
Delaware’s Medicaid program uses a fee-for-service model, managed by the Division of Medicaid and Medical Assistance. The state employs a brokerage model, where brokers coordinate transportation requests to streamline services and control costs.
Key facts about Delaware’s NEMT system :
NEMT Model: In-house, state-managed brokerage with Medicaid oversight.Operating Authority: Federal Section 1915(b) Freedom-of-Choice Waiver. Managed under the State Medicaid Plan.NEMT Expense Classification: Classified as a medical expense under Medicaid.Poverty Rate: Approximately 12% of residents live below the poverty line.Urban Population: 69% of the population resides in urban areas.Estimated Annual NEMT expense: $11.2 MillionEstimated Annual NEMT trips: 398,2546 | Getting Paid
NEMT payments in Delaware are primarily managed through Medicaid. Here’s how you’ll typically receive compensation:
Medicaid Fee-for-Service: Direct reimbursement from Medicaid for eligible trips.Brokerage Contracts: Partner with brokers who handle trip coordination and payments.Ensure you follow Medicaid billing guidelines closely for smooth and timely payments. It’s never fun to wait for a paycheck! For more details, connect with the Division of Medicaid and Medical Assistance or your brokerage partners directly.
With this market overview, you’re ready to move forward. Stay tuned for Part 2 , where we’ll guide you through developing a business plan tailored to Delaware’s NEMT needs, or jump ahead in the TOC to get started on your NEMT journey in the First State!
Comments
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut commodo diam libero vitae erat. Aenean faucibus nibh et justo cursus id rutrum lorem imperdiet. Nunc ut sem vitae risus tristique posuere.