
With valuable insights from your Florida NEMT market research in Part 1, it’s necessary to create a comprehensive business plan. This step is essential for registering your business and securing funding opportunities.
We recommend starting your research through Select Florida and the Florida Secretary of State. Beginning a new business and writing up a plan in Florida involves several integral steps, such as selecting a business structure, registering the business, obtaining the necessary licenses and permits and understanding tax rules. Another place to look for startup support is the Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC).
Here is a quick and helpful guide to assist you through this part of the process:
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 structure has different legal and tax implications so be sure to understand the differences.
After selecting the business entity that best suits your needs, the next step is to come up with a name for it. Enjoy this part of the process—we certainly did when we created our name, Bambi. Once you have a name, both the entity and the name must be registered with the Florida Secretary of State to conduct business in Florida or with Floridians.
Apply for an EIN from the IRS if you will have employees or operate as a corporation or partnership.
In Florida, you can register for taxes and obtain necessary permits through the Florida Department of Revenue.
Awesome! To dive into Part 3, where we'll jump right into Florida's regulations and insurance requirements, click here. Otherwise, explore other sections in the series by checking out the table of contents here.

Before diving into launching your NEMT business in Florida, thorough market research is key. This important step helps you navigate Florida’s diverse landscape and vibrant communities, ensuring you avoid entering an oversaturated market while pinpointing opportunities to fill gaps in existing NEMT services. For instance, you might find that while certain areas have NEMT providers catering to specific healthcare facilities, there's potential to expand your services to include popular spots like retirement communities, assisted living facilities, medical clinics or where the snowbirds flock. This approach ensures you're ready to meet the transportation needs across Florida's sprawling and sunny terrain.
In Florida, non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services are indeed provided under Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) through the state's Medicaid program. MCOs play a vital role in managing transportation services for Medicaid beneficiaries to ensure they can access necessary medical appointments. MCOs in Florida coordinate transportation services for Medicaid beneficiaries. They manage networks of transportation providers, which may include taxis, specialized medical transport and ride-sharing services.
The Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) oversees Medicaid managed care regulations to uphold quality service and safety standards.
Here are some of the most notable NEMT providers that work with these MCOs:
Understand the demand for your NEMT business in your local Florida area by assessing whether you'll serve multiple jurisdictions or focus within a specific radius. Conduct research on local hospitals, healthcare facilities, wellness centers and other relevant health-focused establishments. Think creatively and explore beyond the conventional methods to uncover opportunities outside the norm.
Note that the population of Florida is estimated to be around 21 million people. And remember a good almost quarter of that is the elderly folk. So after thoroughly researching the NEMT market opportunities and gauging the demand across this substantial population, it’s time to identify the most viable demographic to target — whether seniors, individuals with disabilities or a broader patient population. Focusing on a specific group allows you to tailor your services and marketing strategies more effectively.
NEMT providers offer essential services including ambulatory, stretcher and wheelchair transportation. Start by focusing on the service that's in highest demand to effectively meet community needs. This strategic approach ensures a solid foundation and sets the stage for long-term success. Keep an eye on competitors; differentiate yourself with unique services or target underserved niches. Lastly, launch with a top-tier fleet designed for your specific service area, whether transporting individuals to adult day cares, physical therapy centers or other vital destinations.
Before May 2014, Florida's Medicaid agency, the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA), worked with the Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged (CTD) to oversee all NEMT services statewide. The CTD, an independent commission under the Florida Department of Transportation, aimed to ensure efficient, cost-effective transportation for individuals facing transportation challenges. To achieve this, CTD partnered with over 65 county-based community transportation coordinators to assist Medicaid recipients with travel needs.
Initially, 55 of Florida's 67 counties integrated NEMT with human services and public transportation, while the remaining 12 counties provided NEMT as a distinct service. In 2011, the Florida Legislature established the Managed Medical Assistance program, mandating Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) to cover NEMT among other services. By May 2014, each MCO contracted with one of three national for-profit brokers to manage NEMT under the managed care plans. These brokers in turn collaborated with various transportation providers, including taxicabs, public transit, human services providers and in some counties, the community transportation coordinators.
Here are some fast Florida facts according to report State-by-State Profiles for Examining the Effects of Non-Emergency MEdical Transportation Brokerages on Transportation Coordination:
In Florida, NEMT providers receive payment through various methods under the Medicaid program:
Providers must adhere to Medicaid billing guidelines and procedures when submitting claims for reimbursement. For detailed information and specific requirements, providers should consult the Florida Medicaid program or their affiliated managed care organization.
Congratulations on completing this informative first part! Next, let's proceed to Part 2, where we'll delve into crafting your business plan. Click here to continue, or explore other sections in the series through the table of contents.

Welcome and bienvenidos to the sunny, Sunshine State, Florida! Known for its beautiful beaches, cultural diversity and laid-back lifestyle, Florida is where the warmth of the weather matches the warm Bambi hearts of its people. From the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean, Florida is a happy haven for locals, springbreakers, snowbirds and retirees seeking to escape the cold and embrace the sun-soaked days.
Because Floridians are renowned for their friendliness, welcoming nature and love for their panhandle state, it’s an ideal environment for your new entrepreneurial journey — and getting to work in a state where it’s mostly always sunny, will make every day feel like a vacation!
Regarding business opportunities in terms of supporting its population, Florida is the third most populous state in the United States, with over 21 million residents. While it’s not the third largest by area, it ranks just behind California and Texas in population. The state's popularity, especially among retirees, is due to its warm climate, tax benefits and many recreational opportunities.
With over 20% of Floridians aged 65 and older — approximately 4.5 million people — there is a very high demand for reliable healthcare and transportation services. This need is further amplified by the 5% influx of snowbirds, estimated at 800,000 to 1 million, who spend their winters in Florida. These seasonal residents usually arrive in late fall and depart in early spring, increasing the demand even more so for non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. Understanding the needs of this more vulnerable part of the population is crucial for providing effective NEMT services that ensure our elderly residents and seasonal visitors receive the care and support they deserve.
All in all, Florida offers an excellent launchpad for your NEMT business. From the bustling urban centers of Miami, Tampa and Orlando to the expansive rural areas and the breathtaking Everglades, there are abundant opportunities to establish, grow and scale your operations.
Now that you've taken a glimpse into the glades of Florida's potential for your entrepreneurial goals, let's get started. In our Bambi Knows Best series, we'll walk you through every step of launching your certified NEMT business in the Sunshine State. From researching the local market and crafting a robust business plan to navigating regulations, securing funding, building your fleet, hiring and training your team and leveraging essential technology (including our soft software!), we've got you covered.
As you embark on your journey, we recommend engaging with local consultants and networking with fellow NEMT business owners in your area to gather invaluable insights. At Bambi, we prioritize building a supportive community of allies rather than competitors!
Below is a comprehensive table of contents to help you navigate through articles designed to address your specific needs:
Part 1: Research the Florida NEMT market
Part 2: Develop a business plan and get registered in Florida
Part 3: Study Florida’ regulations and get insured
Part 4: Secure funding in Florida
Part 5: Flesh out your NEMT fleet in Florida
Part 6: Hire and train up your NEMT dream team
Part 7: Take care of that tech
Launching an NEMT business in Florida demands dedication, meticulous planning, and a steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional patient care. Through thorough market research, adherence to local regulations, securing funding and vehicles, assembling a skilled team and harnessing technology, you'll navigate challenges with the agility of Bambi. Together, these efforts will pave the way for establishing a thriving NEMT business that makes a positive impact on your local community in Florida. You've got this!
Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda talks with Adam Hoeksema, the creator of ProjectionHub, which helps business owners, including NEMT entrepreneurs, to create SBA ready financial projections for their business.
See the full interview on YouTube.
Please don't forget to subscribe and like NEMT Experts Podcast on YouTube.
Also, available to watch on Spotify
And listen (audio only) on your other favorite podcast platforms Apple and Pandora.
Get ProjectionHub’s full NEMT financial projections model here.
Podcast Show Notes:
Nirav Chheda interviews Adam Hoeksema, co-founder and CEO of Projection Hub, about a financial model specifically designed for NEMT businesses. The model helps entrepreneurs project revenues, costs, and profitability, crucial for securing loans and running a successful business. Adam's experience as an SBA lender inspired him to create user-friendly financial models.
The model covers various aspects like vehicle costs (purchase/lease), revenue per mile, driver pay, fixed and variable costs. It emphasizes the importance of factoring in delays in payment collection (accounts receivable) and adjusting assumptions based on the specific business situation (e.g., location, vehicle type). The model demonstrates potential profitability even with conservative assumptions.
Key Takeaways:
Interesting Quotes:

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) brokers play a vital role in connecting patients with transportation services for medical appointments, therapies, and other healthcare needs. However, the landscape of NEMT coverage can be complex, with variations in eligibility and funding sources from state to state.
This article aims to shed light on the role of NEMT brokers and provide a general overview of NEMT coverage across different states.
An NEMT broker acts as an intermediary between patients and transportation providers. They coordinate transportation arrangements, ensuring patients receive timely and reliable transportation to their healthcare appointments. They integrate with leading NEMT software (like Bambi) to streamline trip requests and scheduling with NEMT providers. Brokers work with various funding sources, including Medicaid, private insurance, and managed care organizations, to secure coverage for eligible patients.
NEMT coverage varies significantly across states. While Medicaid is a primary source of funding for NEMT services, eligibility criteria and covered services can differ. Some states offer comprehensive coverage, including transportation to and from medical appointments, pharmacies, and adult day care centers. Others may have more limited coverage, focusing primarily on essential medical appointments.
Several factors influence NEMT coverage, including:
NEMT brokers simplify the process of accessing transportation services for patients. They along with NEMT scheduling software help navigate the complexities of coverage, coordinate transportation arrangements, and ensure patients reach their appointments safely and on time. Their expertise is invaluable in helping patients overcome transportation barriers and access essential healthcare services.
Bambi has put together a comprehensive list and deep dive into each NEMT broker to help NEMT providers expand their business opportunities and connect with local brokers.
Understanding the role of NEMT brokers and the variations in NEMT coverage across states is essential for patients and healthcare providers alike. By working with a qualified NEMT broker and staying informed about available coverage options, patients can ensure they have reliable transportation to their healthcare appointments, promoting better health outcomes and overall well-being.

Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) brokers play a crucial role in connecting patients with transportation providers, ensuring individuals can access essential healthcare services. But what exactly are NEMT brokers, and how do they work? Let's dive into the details.
What is an NEMT Broker?
NEMT brokers are independent contractors who act as intermediaries between healthcare providers, patients, and transportation providers. They manage the logistics of scheduling and coordinating non-emergency medical transportation services, ensuring patients can get to and from appointments, treatments, and other healthcare facilities. They operate within specific regions and can offer coverage locally, statewide, or even nationally.
What Does an NEMT Broker do?
NEMT brokers handle the administrative tasks involved in authorizing patients for transport services. They work with insurance providers, Medicaid, and other billing sources to ensure patients are eligible and trips are appropriately reimbursed. They also manage trip scheduling and dispatching, considering patient needs, vehicle types, and billing sources.
NEMT brokers excel at navigating the healthcare system, collaborating with patients, healthcare providers, and insurance agencies. They ensure they partner with licensed and credentialed NEMT providers and only work with eligible patients with the necessary insurance coverage.
Many brokers utilize NEMT scheduling software with broker integration to streamline their operations. This allows them to understand patient needs, assign suitable vehicles for specialized trips, and provide necessary equipment like wheelchairs or gurneys.
How to Choose the Right NEMT Broker
Selecting the right NEMT broker is vital for NEMT providers. Consider these key factors:
Can I work Without NEMT Brokers?
While working with brokers can offer benefits like additional revenue streams and streamlined administrative tasks, there are also potential downsides such as limited control over rates and dependence on the broker for business volume. Weigh the pros and cons carefully to determine the best approach for your business.
What NEMT Brokers are available in my area?
Bambi has put together a comprehensive list and deep dive into each NEMT broker to help NEMT providers expand their business opportunities and connect with local brokers.
Final Thoughts
NEMT brokers are essential in the healthcare transportation landscape, connecting patients with the services they need. Choosing the right broker involves careful consideration of factors like industry knowledge, local presence, technology adoption, and communication skills. By partnering with the right broker and leveraging tools like the best NEMT software, NEMT providers can enhance their operations and deliver quality care to their patients.

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) plays a crucial role in ensuring millions of people can access necessary healthcare services. However, the industry faces numerous challenges, particularly when it comes to the relationship between NEMT providers and brokers.
We recently were able to get a group of NEMT providers and brokers together virtually to shed light on the current state of NEMT, highlighting key insights and concerns on the industry.
One of the core issues raised revolves around how each NEMT brokers generates revenue. Primarily, brokers earn money through two mechanisms:
One NEMT owner notes that a significant portion of broker profit often stems from healthcare providers in the broker network who are unaware they have NEMT coverage and never utilize the service. One participant said "I would estimate that about 45% of the people (healthcare facilities) I reached out to did not have any clue that the service was a thing." This disconnect between healthcare facilities and the benefits available to them raises concerns about the effectiveness of the current system.
NEMT providers working with brokers face several obstacles, including:
NEMT is a vital service, but the current landscape presents significant challenges for providers. Addressing issues such as communication breakdowns, inadequate technology, and power imbalances between NEMT brokers and providers is crucial for ensuring the sustainability and effectiveness of NEMT services.
Furthermore, efforts to improve member awareness and access to NEMT benefits are essential for maximizing the impact of these services and ensuring that individuals can receive the care they need.

One Call Medical Transports is a global company specializing in coordinating non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). They have a vast network of providers and focus on excellent customer service with transparent pricing.
One Call Medical Transports serves over 400 customers worldwide in the arrangement of ground transportation. They partner with more than 3500 medical transportation providers throughout the world providing more than 30,000 transports with punctual, high-quality, and cost-effective service.
The One Call business is wholly reliant on the relationships we build with our partner providers and we appreciate new NEMT providers' interest in creating a mutually beneficial relationship.
https://onecallmed.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Provider-Application.pdf [Button “Download & Complete Form to Apply to One Call”]
One Call requires a few items to process invoices quickly:
1. Complete a rate sheet, which can be substituted for one of your own.
2. Please provide a copy of your current liability insurance.
3. Please provide a current W9.
Please email all items or questions to providers@ocmt.com.
Partnering with One Call allows NEMT providers to focus on what they do best – providing quality rider care – while enjoying the benefits of efficient scheduling, competitive pricing, and reliable support.

Update: July 2023 Transdev acquires First Transit.
In the United States, Transdev is the largest private-sector operator of multiple modes of transit. They have a significant presence in North America, providing essential transportation services to communities across the continent.
Transdev acts as a broker and coordinator of non-emergency medical transportation services. They connect transportation providers with clients who need rides to medical appointments, therapies, and other healthcare-related destinations.
Here's a breakdown of what Transdev offers NEMT providers:
In summary, Transdev serves as a valuable partner for NEMT providers by connecting them with clients, providing technology and support, and streamlining their operations. They help providers grow their business and deliver essential transportation services to those in need
What areas does Transdev cover?
Transdev's NEMT services in the USA cover a wide range of states and areas, though not nationwide. Based on available information, their current coverage includes:

https://transdevhealthsolutions.com/colorado

https://transdevhealthsolutions.com/oregon/

https://transdevhealthsolutions.com/alohacare

https://transdevhealthsolutions.com/ohp

https://transdevhealthsolutions.com/netspap

https://transdevhealthsolutions.com/cookcounty/
Additionally, Transdev mentions having "transportation coordination centers located from coast to coast," implying a broader reach, but the specific locations are not explicitly listed.
Each program managed by Transdev has a slightly different process, but essentially each requires the following.
Apply to the Transdev Networks
By joining the Transdev NEMT Broker network, providers can expand their reach, streamline their operations, and benefit from the support and expertise of a leading transportation company.