How to Start an NEMT Business in North Dakota: A "Bambi Knows Best" State-By-State Series Part 1: Research the North Dakota NEMT Market In this North Dakota edition of Bambi Knows Best we’ll be helping you build your non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) dream job in the Peace Garden State! With its vast prairies, close-knit towns and open rual spaces, North Dakota has a big heart and a big need for dependable NEMT services. Whether you’re planning routes through Bismarck or heading out to rural healthcare centers, let’s dig into how to find your footing (or hoofing!) in North Dakota’s unique market.
1 | Identify Existing NEMT Providers in North Dakota Start by getting to know who’s already serving the community. North Dakota’s Medicaid program manages NEMT services, working closely with brokers to meet federal and state guidelines. Key players include:
Modivcare – One of the major brokers coordinating NEMT for Medicaid clients in the state.Local Transport Providers – Many local companies offer services in both rural and urban areas.Uber Health: Available in select cities across the state, offering HIPAA-compliant ride scheduling for these non-medical emergency kinds of visits.We highly recommend that you check out online directories and connect with local NEMT resources to learn more about competitors and available services, especially around regional health hubs like Fargo and Grand Forks.
2 | Assess the Demand for NEMT Services North Dakota’s healthcare needs are growing, particularly for seniors and those in rural areas. For the latest data, we suggest that you check with the North Dakota Department of Human Services. Some key areas to consider include:
Senior Centers and Assisted Living – Facilities, especially in places like Minot and Fargo, with consistent NEMT needs.Dialysis Centers – Regular transport is essential for patients who need frequent treatments.Therapy Clinics and Hospitals – A network of clinics, hospitals and therapy centers generates steady transport demand.Outpatient Facilities – Often need reliable NEMT services for patients who require assistance getting to and from appointments.3 | Choose a Target Market It pays and ultimately saves to have a niche. So with that we say to dial in on a specific target audience to save on your market budget. Seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with chronic health conditions often rely on NEMT services. Understanding who you’re serving helps you market effectively and cater to the state’s healthcare demands.
4 | Determine Specific NEMT Services Consider what types of NEMT services you’ll offer. From rural routes to city transport, North Dakota’s landscape offers plenty of opportunities to provide much-needed rides for regular check-ups, therapy sessions and more. Keep in mind that rural communities may need extra flexibility and scheduling to account for distance.
5 | Understand Medicaid Delivery Models in North Dakota North Dakota uses a fee-for-service model, where Medicaid reimburses providers directly for NEMT services, keeping you in control of scheduling and payment. Here’s a quick breakdown:
NEMT Model : Medicaid fee-for-service structure.Operating Authority : Medicaid manages and reimburses NEMT services.Expense Classification : Medicaid classifies NEMT as a medical expense.Population Considerations : North Dakota has about 770,000 residents, with a significant rural population needing reliable transport options.Estimated Annual NEMT Expenditure : Approximately $15 million.6 | Getting Paid Medicaid directly reimburses NEMT providers through its fee-for-service system. Staying familiar with Medicaid billing guidelines will help prevent any payment delays, so be sure to build a solid relationship with Medicaid representatives.
With this overview, you’re well on your way to a solid start in North Dakota! Stay tuned for Part 2 , where we’ll dive into creating a business plan to meet the Peace Garden State’s unique needs, or skip ahead in our TOC to learn more.
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