NEMT Experts Podcast Episode 17: Using Data to Drive Profit in NEMT with Cris Sierra VP at ComfortCare Transportation, and Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda.

Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda talks with Cris Sierra, VP at ComfortCare Transportation, about how NEMT operators of all sizes can use data & analytics to increase operational efficiency, increase safety, reduce cost, and drive revenue.

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See the full interview on YouTube:https://youtu.be/r_06MX-ufBg‍

Please don't forget to subscribe and like NEMT Experts Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bambihealth
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Also, available to watch on Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bambi-nemt/episodes/NEMT-Experts-Podcast-Episode-16-Using-Data-to-Drive-Profit-e2grkpv
And listen only on your other favorite podcast platforms Apple, Sticher, and Google Play.
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Podcast Show Notes:

Chris shared a compelling story about the significant reduction in accidents after implementing fleet telematics to monitor driving behavior. By educating drivers on the benefits, their company saw an increase from 94/95% to 99% of transports completed without safety incidents. This highlights the power of data analytics to identify areas of improvement and drive impactful safety and cost-reduction initiatives. Chris encourages NEMT operators to start small by identifying one specific area to focus on with their data analysis (example: on-time percentage). Commit to tracking that metric for a dedicated period of time (like 30 days) to unlock actionable insights for operational improvement.

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Key Takeaways

• Data analytics are essential for NEMT growth and success. Data provides actionable insights, helping operators make informed decisions to enhance operations and financial results.
• Data informs optimization. Analyzing historical data and trends helps NEMT businesses optimize routing and scheduling for improved efficiency, fuel cost reduction, and reduced travel/idle time.
• Data drives patient experience. Operators can track patient preferences, feedback, and trends for a better understanding of rider needs and how to enhance their experience.
• Start small, focus, and take action. While data analytics can be overwhelming, starting with a single key metric (like on-time percentage) and focusing intently will yield valuable results.
• Use data to empower decision-making. Don't guess; use concrete data to make operational changes, identify performance trends, and address issues.
• Telematics is a must. Fleet telematics offers invaluable data on optimizing routes, improving fuel efficiency, monitoring driver behavior, and enhancing vehicle maintenance practices.
• Software solutions are essential partners. Tools like Bambi provide the route optimization and scheduling support needed to leverage data insights and drive operational improvements.

Interesting Quotes

• "...data analytics can be an extremely powerful tool."
• " What you'll hear me say a lot is how is our data actionable?"
• "Instead of making an educated guess, you know, how do you know type of guess, you will have concrete data to help support that..."
• "...all these things from a data analytic perspective, equate back to your bottom line, how can you reduce expenses, reduce your cost and increase your overall revenue?"

Here are some time-stamped show notes:

• 00:00 Introduction
• ‍00:32 Cris’ background
• ‍04:13 NEMTAC advisory board
• ‍05:25 Overview of using data analytics
• ‍10:01 Measuring and taking action
• ‍17:50 Analytics for small fleets
• ‍23:27 Telematics
• ‍31:22 Improving safety, reducing cost
• ‍36:21 Final takeaway

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NEMT Experts Podcast Episode 18: Ride with Roslyn with B811 Medical Transportation owner Roslyn Taggart and Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda.

Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda rides along with Roslyn Taggart, the owner of B811 Medical Transportation in Fairfield, California, chatting about how she's successfully grown her NEMT business to 4 vehicles in less than a year.

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See the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/eAkEFNPs024‍

Please don't forget to subscribe and like NEMT Experts Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bambihealth
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Also, available to watch on Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bambi-nemt/episodes/NEMT-Experts-Podcast-Episode-15-Ride-with-Roslyn-e2gmprg
And listen only on your other favorite podcast platforms Apple, Sticher, and Google Play.
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Learn more about B811 Medical Transportation and reach out at https://www.b811medtrans.com/‍‍

Podcast Show Notes:

Rosalyn Taggart, founder of B811 Transport, shares her inspiring journey in the non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) industry. She discusses launching her business to honor her brother, quickly scaling up to four vehicles, and the importance of networking and empathy in building successful NEMT operations.‍‍

Key Takeaways

• The Power of Purpose: Rosalyn founded B811 Transport in memory of her brother, and provides free rides to clients on their birthdays as a tribute, demonstrating how a personal mission can fuel success. (1:51)
• Smart Networking: Instead of traditional door-to-door marketing, Rosalyn focused on connecting with decision-makers like council members, mayors, and directors of aging services. This strategy helped her secure larger contracts. (5:48)
• Scaling Up Requires the Right Resources Rosalyn partnered with resources like the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Workforce Development Board to find and train drivers with empathy. She also emphasizes choosing the right vehicles to scale effectively. (11:51)
• Bambi as a Game Changer: Rosalyn credits Bambi software with streamlining scheduling, route optimization, and reporting, stating it's been a lifesaver for her business. (22:02)
• Branding is More Than Just a Logo: Rosalyn stresses that branding encompasses how you present your business, from driver attire and client interactions to your driving behavior on the road. (35:37)
• The Value of Conferences: Rosalyn found the DEM tech conference valuable for networking, learning about the industry landscape, and gaining insights from seasoned NEMT providers. (37:11)

Interesting Quotes

• "If you're comfortable, you're not in the right spot. In order to grow, you have to be uncomfortable." (5:48)
• "We know all our clients by their first names...they call us...they depend on us." (13:46)
• "Bambi has been a lifesaver, it's been amazing." (22:02)
• "Branding is everything...it's how you present yourself...how you handle customers" (34:37)

Here are some time-stamped show notes:

• Rosalyn's Founding Story: 1:51
• Networking Strategies: 5:48
• Workforce Development Partnership: 11:51
• Finding the Right Insurance: 16:39
• Planning for Expansion: 17:48
• Mistakes and Lessons Learned: 18:12
• The Bambi Advantage: 22:02
• Family Involvement: 26:17
• Branding Insights: 34:37

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Bambi & Premier Transit Success Story: From Military Transport Coordinator to NEMT Powerhouse

Derrick Edwards never imagined that his background in military transportation would propel him to become a leader in Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT). Yet, a conversation with a friend in the industry and astute market observations ignited his entrepreneurial drive. Founded in March of 2022, Derrick's company, Premier Transit, now boasts six vehicles and provides top-tier medical transport services in Mobile, Alabama.

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The Keys to Premier Transit's Success

Derrick attributes his swift success to several key factors:

• Branding and Marketing Savvy: Premier Transit caught the eye of potential clients due to their immaculate, wrapped vehicles with bold logos. Derrick recognized the power of visibility, turning each van into a moving billboard. He emphasizes that strong branding doesn't require big-budget ad campaigns – smart positioning is what sets a business apart.
• Cleanliness as a Cornerstone: Understanding the importance of a positive client experience, Premier Transit maintains rigorously clean vehicles inside and out, every single day. This instills comfort and confidence in their riders, leading to referrals and repeat business.
• Non-Binding Service Agreements: A strategic move on Derrick's part – these agreements offer flexibility and allow for adjustments as both the business and industry landscapes evolve. Derrick advises seeking online guidance rather than paying large sums for inflexible, cookie-cutter agreements.
• Smart, Organic Growth: Instead of succumbing to pressure to rapidly expand his fleet, Derrick carefully managed overhead costs. He waited until the business could organically afford it before purchasing additional vehicles. This sustainable approach avoids unnecessary financial burdens.
• Respect as the Guiding Principle: Premier Transit is built on a foundation of respect – for clients, staff, and business partners. Derrick's genuine care for others is evident in his patient treatment of those with limited mobility, his fair compensation for employees, and his respectful negotiations with facilities.

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NEMT Insights Straight from the Expert

Derrick highlights valuable insights for those considering an NEMT venture or looking to improve their existing business:

• Market Research is King: Derrick diligently researched rates in his region, making informed pricing decisions based on real-world context. Rather than undercutting for short-term gains, he advocates for competitive rates to safeguard the profitability of both his business and the entire NEMT industry in the area.
• The Power of Online Resources: Information is abundant for aspiring NEMT owners, though some digging might be required. Derrick urges newcomers to take advantage of platforms like YouTube and other online sources to inform their business plans.
• Focus on Strengths, Address Weaknesses: He champions continuous improvement by constantly reflecting on areas to further refine. This self-awareness ensures they deliver consistent, high-quality service.
• A Collaborative Industry Mindset: Derrick believes that success rests on cooperation between providers. He rejects a scarcity mindset, believing there are ample opportunities for all NEMT businesses to thrive when fair rates are embraced industry-wide.

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Bambi: Fueling NEMT Operational Excellence at Premier Transit

After relying on Excel spreadsheets and juggling operational complexities, Derrick discovered 

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Bambi NEMT scheduling software. He found the platform simple to learn and implement, praising its user-friendly interface, which has drastically reduced administrative burdens and streamlined tasks for dispatchers and drivers alike. Derrick recommends Bambi enthusiastically for other NEMT providers.

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Premier Transit Future Vision: Expansion and Diversification

Always thinking strategically, Derrick outlines his five-year plan for Premier Transit:

• Rental and Sales Market: He'll add mobility van rentals and sales to his business model, filling a clear demand in Mobile. This forward-thinking strategy further solidifies Premier Transit's position within Alabama's transportation sector.
• Controlled Fleet Growth: While continuing to expand services, Derrick aims to carefully balance their fleet with projected need, avoiding overextension and unnecessary expenses.
• Staying Focused: Premier Transit's focus is on providing consistently outstanding NEMT services – something they already excel at.

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Building a Legacy

Derrick's path clearly shows that dedication and smart business practices are a recipe for success in NEMT.  Premier Transit embodies a refreshing approach built on professionalism, cleanliness, and genuine care for its community. The next phase of this dynamic company is shaping up to be equally impressive.

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Watch and Listen in an Extended Interview with Derrick Edwards from Bambi’s NEMT Expert Talks Podcast.

Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda sits down and interviews Derrick Edwards, the owner of Premier Transit in Mobile, Alabama, on how he has successfully grown his NEMT business to 7 vehicles in 22 months.

See the full interview at: https://youtu.be/E2AewXjxJQ4

When you are done check out Part 2: https://youtu.be/0pOXrJSSeJA

and Part 3: https://youtu.be/DMrCxL1Yb9Q

NEMT Experts Podcast Episode 16: Optimal Reliability Transportation From NEMT to Student Transport with Sharnese Johnson, and Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda.

Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda interviews Sharnese Johnson, CEO of Optimal Reliability Transportation and the "Secret Sauce" NEMT Coach on becoming a NEMT coach and shifting her focus from NEMT to Student transport.

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See the full interview at: https://youtu.be/rex2Eff9eVg

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Please don't forget to subscribe and like NEMT Experts Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@bambihealth
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Learn more about Sharnese and reach out at: https://www.teambusiness.org/

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Podcast Show Notes:

Sharnese Johnson shifted her focus from NEMT to student transportation.

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Key takeaways:

Reason for the shift:

• Saw a growing need for student transportation, especially for families with children in special needs or those who live in areas without school buses.
• Wanted to help families who struggle to transport their children to school due to lack of transportation options or busy schedules.
• Enjoys working with children and providing them with a safe and comfortable transportation experience.

Experience in NEMT:

• Started her NEMT business seven years ago and transitioned to student transportation two and a half years ago.
• Gained extensive knowledge and experience in the passenger transportation industry, which she now leverages to help her clients in the student transportation business.
• Still offers NEMT consulting and coaching services.

Success stories:

• Helped a client in Massachusetts secure contracts with the Centers for Aging.
• Helped a young lady in South Carolina start her student transportation business, and she is now being approached by schools and school districts.
• Helped a client in Florida grow her student transportation business.

Benefits of student transportation:

• Provides flexibility for parents, such as satellite drop-off locations.
• Caters to the needs of students with special needs.
• Fulfills a growing demand in the transportation industry.

Here are some time-stamped show notes:

• 00:00 Introduction
• ‍00:47 Sharnese's background
• ‍04:45 NEMT coaching and mentoring
• ‍07:00 Client success stories
• ‍09:35 Shift to student transport
• ‍13:35 NEMT vs student transport
• ‍18:10 How to do student transport
• ‍24:27 Demand for student transport
• ‍26:03 Fun stories of student transport
• ‍27:53 Conclusion

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NEMT Experts Podcast Episode 14: How to become a NEMT Broker with Stephanie Harmon, the "NEMT Guru" and Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda.

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Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda interviews Stephanie Harmon, the "NEMT Guru", on how she started her NEMT broker business.

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See the full interview at: https://youtu.be/iD54RttMjQ4

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Please don't forget to subscribe and like NEMT Experts Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@bambihealth
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To learn more about Stephanie Harmon's NEMT courses and consulting and to book an appointment, go to https://www.stunninglystephanie.com/

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Podcast Show Notes:

Key Takeaways

• From Law Enforcement to NEMT: Stephanie's background as a police officer gave her a unique perspective and skillset for her NEMT business (discipline, understanding legal frameworks).
• Expanding Business Models: Stephanie's progression from NEMT provider to broker highlights the different avenues of success within the industry.
• Understanding Your Worth: A major theme is for NEMT providers know their value and not undersell their services. Stephanie helps providers price appropriately.
• The Importance of Collaboration: Stephanie emphasizes the benefits of working with other providers and avoiding "cutthroat" competition in the NEMT space.
• Resources for Growth: Stephanie offers resources like bootcamps and mentoring programs to help NEMT businesses thrive, showcasing her commitment to sharing knowledge.
• Key Personal Attributes for Success: Stephanie highlights the importance of consistency, persistence, and building relationships in the NEMT industry.

Here are some time-stamped show notes:

• 00:00 Introduction
• ‍01:47 Stephanie's background
• ‍07:47 Consulting others on dealing with brokers
• ‍11:27 Losing money on broker trips
• ‍15:47 Building relationships and networks
• ‍18:40 Starting to broker NEMT trips
• ‍23:50 Growing the broker business
• ‍25:40 Being a high-trust broker
• ‍30:50 Relationship with Bambi
• ‍32:58 Learning about transportation
• ‍35:40 Building relationships all over America
• ‍37:47 Organically increasing broker business's reach
• ‍39:50 Collaboration over competition
• ‍43:10 Why you can trust Stephanie
• ‍46:00 Conclusion

NEMT Experts Podcast Episode 15 (Part 2): How to Grow your NEMT Business with Derrick Edwards, owner of Premier Transit and Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda.

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.

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See the full interview at: https://youtu.be/0pOXrJSSeJA

When you are done check out Part 3: https://youtu.be/DMrCxL1Yb9Q

Missed Part 1, no worries! Go back and see Part 1: https://youtu.be/E2AewXjxJQ4

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Please don't forget to subscribe and like NEMT Experts Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@bambihealth
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Learn more about Premier Transit in Mobile, AL: https://www.thepremiertransit.com/

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Podcast Show Notes:

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:

• Start small and grow organically: Derek started his business with 2 vehicles and grew it slowly by reinvesting his profits. He believes that it is important to avoid taking on too much debt when starting a business.
• Focus on customer service: Derek believes that providing excellent customer service is essential for success in the NEMT business. He says that he treats all of his clients with respect and that he is always willing to go the extra mile to help them.
• Use brokers strategically: Derek uses brokers to fill in the gaps in his schedule, but he does not rely on them for the majority of his business. He believes that brokers can be a helpful tool for new businesses, but that it is important to eventually transition to private pay and Medicaid contracts.
• Invest in technology: Derek uses Bambi, a NEMT software program, to manage his business. He is very impressed with Bambi and believes that it has helped him to improve his efficiency and profitability.

Derek's story is an inspiring example of how to grow a successful NEMT business. By following his advice, you can avoid common pitfalls and set your business up for long-term success.

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Here are some time-stamped show notes:

• 00:00 Introduction
• ‍00:19 Keeping overhead down
• ‍02:00 Treat people with respect
• ‍03:22 Don't focus on competition
• ‍05:10 5-year vision for Premier Transit
• ‍08:00 Reaching maximum vehicles
• ‍10:12 How to use brokers
• ‍13:00 Medicaid rides
• ‍18:35 Bambi NEMT software

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NEMT Experts Podcast Episode 13 (Part 1): How to Grow your NEMT Business with Derrick Edwards, owner of Premier Transit and Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda.

In the episode, Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda interviews Derrick Edwards, the owner of Premier Transit in Mobile, Alabama, on how he has successfully grown his NEMT business to 7 vehicles in 22 months. Derek talks about his journey of starting and growing his NEMT business. He shares his insights on branding, marketing, rates, and software for NEMT businesses.

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See the full interview at: https://youtu.be/E2AewXjxJQ4

When you are done check out Part 2: https://youtu.be/0pOXrJSSeJA

and Part 3: https://youtu.be/DMrCxL1Yb9Q

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Please don't forget to subscribe and like NEMT Experts Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@bambihealth
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Learn more about Premier Transit in Mobile, AL: https://www.thepremiertransit.com/‍

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Podcast Show Notes:

How to Grow your NEMT Business (Part 1/3), which features Derek Edwards, the owner of Premier Transit, an NEMT business based in Mobile, Alabama.

Starting an NEMT business:

• Derek started his NEMT business with two personal vehicles in 2020.
• He initially focused on ambulatory services but later expanded to wheelchair transportation as well.
• He emphasizes the importance of having a clear understanding of the NEMT industry and the rates before starting a business.

Branding and marketing:

• Derek believes that branding and marketing are crucial for success in the NEMT industry.
• He uses his vehicles as mobile billboards by wrapping them with his company logo and contact information.
• He also emphasizes the importance of providing clean and comfortable vehicles to clients.

Rates:

• Derek advises against undercutting other NEMT companies, as this can hurt the entire industry.
• He recommends doing research to determine fair rates for your area and services.
• He also suggests creating service agreements that are tailored to your specific business model.

Software for NEMT businesses:

• Derek uses Bambi software to manage his NEMT business.
• He finds Bambi to be user-friendly, affordable, and efficient.
• He recommends Bambi to other NEMT businesses.

Additional tips:

• Derek emphasizes the importance of providing excellent customer service.
• He also recommends building relationships with healthcare facilities and other potential clients.
• He believes that being passionate about helping others is essential for success in the NEMT industry.

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Here are some time-stamped show notes:

00:00 Introduction

‍01:30 Derrick's background

‍03:03 Learning about NEMT

‍05:01 Starting the business

‍06:00 Choosing vehicles

‍07:30 Brokers and private pay facilities

‍08:40 Branding and marketing

‍11:47 Caring for vehicles

‍13:00 Approaching facilities

‍15:30 Arrangement with facilities

‍18:50 Collaborating with others

‍20:19 Conducting research

‍22:45 Getting Bambi software

‍27:53 Conclusion

NEMT Experts Podcast Episode 12: Becoming "That NEMT Girl" with Te'ya Miles and Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda.

Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda interviews Te'ya Miles, popularly known online as "That NEMT Girl", on how she came to build her online NEMT communities and NEMT consulting brand.

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See the full interview at: https://youtu.be/RIt75pBHLo8

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Please don't forget to subscribe and like NEMT Experts Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@bambihealth
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Learn more about Te'ya "That NEMT Girl" and reach out to her at https://www.theenemtgirl.com/‍

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Podcast Show Notes:

In the episode, Te'ya Miles discusses her journey of starting her NEMT business, and building her online community, That NEMT Girl.

How Te'ya Miles started her NEMT business:

• Te'ya Miles was inspired to start her NEMT business after seeing senior residents at her property management job waiting for long periods for rides.

• She researched NEMT and learned about the different requirements in each state.
• She started her business with a van and provided transportation services to patients.

How That NEMT Girl community was born:

• Te'ya Miles was frustrated by the misinformation she saw online about NEMT.

• She wanted to share her own experience and knowledge to help others who were interested in starting NEMT businesses.
• She created the That NEMT Girl Facebook group and YouTube channel to provide information and resources to NEMT business owners and aspiring owners.

What That NEMT Girl community offers:

• The That NEMT Girl community provides a space for NEMT business owners to ask questions, share experiences, and learn from each other.
• Te'ya Miles also offers one-on-one consulting services to help NEMT business owners get started and grow their businesses.

Some of the challenges Te'ya Miles has faced:

• Te'ya Miles has had to deal with misinformation in the NEMT industry.

• She has also had to help clients who have had negative experiences with NEMT providers.

Overall, Te'ya Miles is passionate about helping others succeed in the NEMT industry. She is a valuable resource for NEMT business owners and aspiring owners.

Here are some links mentioned in the podcast:

• That NEMT Girl Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1445484494144494/
• That NEMT Girl YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3o2a_zso0aJOYRlBLzPv_A

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Here are some time-stamped show notes:

00:00 Introduction

‍06:20 Starting her NEMT business

‍11:00 Online social groups by "That NEMT Girl"

‍13:55 Consulting services by "That NEMT Girl"

‍15:50 When to get a consult

‍17:20 Te'ya's client stories

‍20:00 Te'ya's personal NEMT stories

‍24:45 Conclusion

NEMT Experts Podcast Episode 11: 5 Mistakes to Avoid in NEMT with Howard Berkowitz and Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda.

Bambi CEO Nirav Chheda interviews Howard Berkowitz, a leading NEMT consultant and NEMTAC Advisory Board Member, on 5 common mistakes that NEMT startup businesses need to avoid.

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See the full interview at: https://youtu.be/jk3Ka8Oxyd4

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Please don't forget to subscribe and like NEMT Experts Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@bambihealth
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Learn more about Howard's NEMT Startup Coaching at https://nemt.consulting/

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Podcast Show Notes:

• Do Your Homework: Thoroughly research your market before starting a NEMT company. Understand the competition, pricing structures in your area, the availability of business, and the specific needs of the medical facilities you'll serve.
• Business Structure Matters: Choose the correct business structure (LLC, Corporation) to protect yourself legally and give your business a solid foundation for growth.
• Training is Essential: Invest heavily in driver training to ensure the safety of your passengers. This is paramount for wheelchair securement, stretcher use, and general passenger care. Ongoing training and spot checks are crucial.
• Accidents are Costly (Literally and Figuratively): Training and safe practices mitigate the risk of accidents. Accidents lead to injuries, lawsuits, skyrocketing insurance rates, and potentially force you out of business.
• Hire a Knowledgeable Consultant: If possible, invest in a consultant with extensive NEMT experience, ideally someone who has owned and operated a NEMT company themselves. They'll help you navigate the industry's specifics and avoid costly mistakes.

Additional Insights from Howard Berkowitz:

• Seek Out a Scalable Software Solution: As a consultant, Howard sees value in user-friendly, scalable software (like Bambi). Avoid overly complex software designed for much larger operations.
• Get Involved in the Industry Organizations like NEMTAC (National Emergency Medical Transportation Association of Companies) set standards and provide valuable resources for NEMT businesses.

Here are some time-stamped show notes:

00:00 Introduction

‍03:30 Mistake #1: Not doing your homework

‍06:50 Mistake #2: Failing to have a business structure

‍08:54 Mistake #3: No driver training

‍10:47 Mistake #4: Vehicle accidents

‍12:56 Mistake #5: Not hiring a consultant

‍20:05 Conclusion

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