Getting to medical appointments is a crucial part of healthcare, and Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) understands this need. For members who require assistance with transportation, BCBS offers a range of services to ensure you can reach your healthcare providers. This guide will walk you through the transportation benefits available, focusing on how to utilize them effectively and what options are available to you.
Utilizing the ModivCare App for Easy Ride Scheduling
One of the easiest ways to manage your medical transportation is through the ModivCare app. This user-friendly application puts the control in your hands, allowing you to schedule, modify, and monitor your rides directly from your smartphone. Available for download on both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, simply search for “ModivCare” to get started. Creating an account is straightforward and requires an email address, after which booking your transportation becomes a matter of a few taps.
The ModivCare App offers several key features to streamline your transportation experience:
- Book a Trip: Schedule your medical transportation quickly and efficiently.
- Change or Cancel a Ride: Manage your appointments with flexibility by altering or cancelling rides as needed.
- Real-Time Driver Tracking: Know exactly where your driver is and get accurate arrival times, reducing wait time and uncertainty.
- Direct Driver Communication: Communicate with your driver via text or call to coordinate pick-up and ensure timely arrival.
- Mileage Reimbursement Claims: Submit trip mileage claims directly through the app for eligible reimbursements, simplifying the process.
- In-App Support: Access live support agents directly through the app for any assistance or queries you may have.
Understanding Mileage Reimbursement for Transportation
In certain situations, mileage reimbursement is available for eligible drivers transporting members to appointments. These submissions are subject to review and approval. You can submit your mileage reimbursement requests either through a Trip Log form or conveniently via the ModivCare mobile app. Using the app allows you to easily submit requests and track the status of your reimbursement, providing transparency and ease of access. For detailed information on mileage reimbursement, you can refer to the Mileage Reimbursement FAQs.
Services Not Covered Under Blue Cross Blue Shield Transportation Benefits
It’s important to be aware of the limitations of your transportation benefits. Generally, Blue Cross Blue Shield does not cover transportation for:
- Non-Medical Needs: Rides for errands such as shopping or social visits to friends are not included.
- Out-of-Network Providers: Transportation to healthcare providers outside of the BCBS network typically requires special authorization.
- Excessively Distant Providers: Appointments with providers located more than 65 miles away may not be covered without prior authorization from BCBS.
Non-Emergency Ambulance Services Through First Transit
For members requiring non-emergency ambulance services, Blue Cross Blue Shield partners with First Transit. This service requires prior approval, and First Transit works in conjunction with the Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) to deliver this service.
When you contact First Transit, they will assess your eligibility for non-emergency ambulance transport. If you qualify, they will provide you with a list of approved ambulance providers in your network. After arranging your ride with a provider, you will need to finalize the details with First Transit to confirm your transportation.
To request non-emergency ambulance services, contact First Transit directly at 1-877-725-0569. They are available Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time. Remember that all other forms of transportation should be scheduled through ModivCare.
Utilizing Bus Passes for Local Transportation
If you reside near public transportation, specifically within two blocks of a mass transit bus stop, you may be eligible for free bus passes to get to and from your medical appointments. These bus passes can be a convenient option for local travel. To inquire about bus passes, please contact ModivCare at 1-877-831-3148 (TTY/TDD: 1-866-288-3133) at least two weeks prior to your appointment. Bus passes, if approved, will be mailed directly to your home address.
For comprehensive details about transportation services, please consult your Member Handbook or visit the FAQs page for more information.
Understanding your Blue Cross Blue Shield Transportation benefits ensures you can access the medical care you need without transportation barriers. Utilize the ModivCare app or contact the provided numbers to arrange your rides and make the most of your healthcare coverage.
*ModivCare is an independent contractor that arranges and manages non-emergency transportation benefits for select Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois plans.
