Getting to your healthcare appointments shouldn’t be a barrier to receiving the care you need. If you are a Health First Colorado member and lack transportation, Medicaid Transportation in Colorado, also known as Non-Emergent Medical Transportation (NEMT), can provide you with free rides to and from your covered medical services. It’s important to remember that NEMT is not for emergency situations. In case of a medical emergency, please dial 911 immediately.
Understanding Medicaid Non-Emergent Medical Transportation (NEMT) in Colorado
Non-Emergent Medical Transportation (NEMT) is a crucial service for Health First Colorado members who require assistance getting to their healthcare appointments. This service ensures that individuals can access necessary medical care, even without personal transportation options. NEMT is designed for routine appointments and is not intended for urgent or emergency medical situations.
How to Schedule Your Medicaid Ride in Colorado
Scheduling your Medicaid ride in Colorado is a straightforward process. To arrange your transportation, it’s essential to call at least 2 days prior to your scheduled appointment. When you call to book your ride, be prepared to provide the following information:
- Your Full Name:
- Health First Colorado ID Number:
- Date of Birth:
- Date and Time of Ride Needed:
- Pick-up Address:
- Healthcare Provider’s Name, Address, and Phone Number:
It’s also permissible to bring a family member or caregiver along to your appointment for support. When you schedule your ride, simply inform the representative if you plan to bring a companion.
If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider before arranging transportation to their office. Your provider might need to discuss your symptoms with you before your visit to ensure appropriate precautions are taken.
Alt text: Wheelchair user being assisted into NEMT van by driver, highlighting accessible Medicaid transportation in Colorado.
Contacting the Right NEMT Provider in Colorado
The process for contacting your NEMT provider depends on your county of residence in Colorado.
For residents of Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, Jefferson, Larimer, or Weld Counties:
Please contact Transdev/IntelliRide directly at 855-489-4999 (toll free) or utilize the State Relay 711 service. You can also visit their website for online booking and information at transdevhealthsolutions.com/colorado/.
For residents in all other Colorado counties:
You will need to contact a local ride provider. A comprehensive list of local providers can be found on the Health First Colorado website at hcpf.colorado.gov/nemtlist. This list will provide you with the specific contact information for transportation services in your area.
Alt text: Colorado county map, illustrating the widespread availability of Medicaid transportation options throughout the state.
Additional NEMT Services Beyond Rides
Beyond standard rides to appointments, NEMT in Colorado also encompasses other transportation services. These include personal vehicle mileage reimbursement, as well as coverage for air, train, or out-of-state travel when medically necessary and pre-approved. For inquiries regarding these additional services, please contact Transdev/IntelliRide at 855-489-4999 (toll free) or visit transdevhealthsolutions.com/colorado/.
Ensuring Quality Medicaid Transportation and Providing Feedback
To ensure you receive quality service, it’s important to know what to expect from your NEMT driver. A driver should:
- Transport you directly to your appointment and then directly home.
- Always take the most efficient and direct route.
- Never offer money or any other form of incentives.
If you encounter a driver who acts inappropriately or violates these guidelines, it is important to report the incident. You can provide feedback to either Health First Colorado or the Attorney General’s office. Your personal information will remain confidential when reporting suspected fraud or misconduct. By reporting any issues, you help maintain the integrity of the Medicaid transportation program.
Conclusion
Medicaid Transportation in Colorado is a valuable resource designed to ensure Health First Colorado members can access essential healthcare services. By understanding how to utilize NEMT, you can eliminate transportation barriers and prioritize your health. Take advantage of this benefit to get to your appointments without worry.
