Navigating healthcare appointments can be challenging, especially when transportation is a barrier. For Indiana residents enrolled in Traditional Medicaid, accessing necessary medical services is made easier through Indiana Medicaid Transportation Services. This program ensures that eligible individuals have reliable rides to and from medical appointments, pharmacies, and other healthcare facilities. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about utilizing these essential services, focusing on how to schedule a ride with Verida, the designated transportation manager for Indiana’s fee-for-service Medicaid members.
Understanding Your Indiana Medicaid Transportation Benefit
Indiana Medicaid is committed to ensuring its members receive the healthcare they need. A crucial part of this commitment is providing transportation assistance for non-emergency medical appointments. This service is specifically for individuals enrolled in Traditional Medicaid, also known as fee-for-service Medicaid, and excludes those in managed care programs like Hoosier Healthwise, Hoosier Care Connect, or the Healthy Indiana Plan. The goal of this benefit is to remove transportation obstacles, allowing you to attend doctor visits, pick up prescriptions, and access other vital health services without worry.
Since June 1, 2018, the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration has partnered with Verida to streamline and manage these non-emergency transportation services. Verida acts as the central point of contact for scheduling rides, ensuring a smoother and more efficient process for Medicaid members.
How to Schedule a Ride with Verida
Requesting a ride through Indiana Medicaid Transportation Services is a straightforward process when you go through Verida. Here are the primary methods for scheduling your transportation:
Calling the Verida Reservation Line
The most direct way to arrange your ride is by calling the Verida Reservation Line at 855-325-7586. When you call, keep the following points in mind:
- Advance Notice: It is crucial to call at least two business days before your scheduled appointment. This advance notice allows Verida sufficient time to arrange your transportation.
- Operating Hours: The Reservation Line is open from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. EDT. Make sure to call within these hours to schedule your ride.
- Confirmation Call: Once your ride is approved, Verida will call you back to confirm the details at least 24 hours before your scheduled pick-up time.
- Transportation of Last Resort: Remember, these services are intended for individuals who have no other means of transportation. Please utilize this service when you genuinely lack alternative options.
Utilizing the Verida Member Portal Online
For added convenience, Verida offers an online Member Portal at www.facility.verida.com. This portal empowers you to manage your transportation needs digitally. Through the portal, you can:
- Schedule New Trips: Book your rides online at your convenience.
- View Scheduled Trips: Keep track of your upcoming transportation arrangements.
- Cancel Trips: Manage your schedule by canceling rides if needed.
- Access Support: Get assistance from Verida representatives through the portal.
Registering for the Member Portal is simple and provides a user-friendly interface for managing your Indiana Medicaid transportation services.
Essential Information Needed When Scheduling
Whether you choose to call or use the online portal, be prepared to provide the following information when scheduling your ride:
- Medicaid Member ID: Your unique Medicaid identification number.
- Full Name and Date of Birth: For member verification.
- Contact Phone Number: Where Verida can reach you to confirm ride details.
- Pick-up Address and Zip Code: The exact location where you need to be picked up.
- Doctor or Facility Name and Address (including Zip Code): Details of your appointment location.
- Doctor or Facility Phone Number: For verification purposes if needed.
- Appointment Date and Time: The scheduled date and time of your medical appointment.
- Special Transportation Needs: Inform Verida of any specific requirements, such as wheelchair accessibility, walker assistance, or vision impairment.
- Emergency Contact Information: Name and phone number of an emergency contact.
Providing all this information accurately will help Verida efficiently process your ride request.
Key Aspects of Indiana Medicaid Transportation Services
To ensure you have a smooth experience with Indiana Medicaid Transportation Services, here are some important points to keep in mind:
Emergency Transportation
Verida is for non-emergency transportation only. In case of a medical emergency, always call 911 immediately. Emergency transportation is handled separately and is not scheduled through Verida.
What to Do if Your Ride is Delayed or Doesn’t Arrive
If your ride is late or does not arrive as scheduled, contact the Verida Trip Reservation Line at 855-325-7586 and press 2 for “Where’s my Ride?”. A customer service representative will assist you in locating your ride or arranging alternative transportation.
Coverage for Pharmacy Trips
Indiana Medicaid Transportation Services covers trips to the pharmacy. You can schedule these trips through Verida, similar to medical appointments. Additionally, if you need to stop at a pharmacy on your way home from a medical appointment, inform your driver or call Verida to add a pharmacy stop. A pharmacy stop on the return trip will not be counted as a separate trip, maximizing your benefit.
Urgent Trip Requests
If you have an urgent medical appointment that could not be scheduled with two days’ notice, Verida can assist with urgent trip arrangements. However, urgent trip requests typically require verification from your doctor. Contact Verida to discuss your urgent transportation needs. You also have the option to contact a transportation provider directly if you prefer.
Trip Limits
Medicaid typically covers up to 20 one-way trips per rolling 12-month period. If you require more than 20 trips, your doctor can request additional trips, which will need to be approved through Verida. It’s always best to discuss your transportation needs with your healthcare provider.
Reimbursement for Family or Friend Transportation
Indiana Medicaid also offers a program where a family member or friend who frequently drives you to medical appointments can be reimbursed for gas mileage. This option is beneficial if you have a consistent caregiver who provides transportation. To learn more about this Family Member or Associate Transportation program and how to enroll, visit the Family Member or Associate Transportation webpage.
Conclusion
Indiana Medicaid Transportation Services, managed by Verida, plays a vital role in ensuring that Traditional Medicaid members can access necessary healthcare. By understanding how to schedule rides, knowing what information is required, and being aware of the key aspects of the service, you can confidently utilize this valuable benefit. Whether you choose to call the Verida Reservation Line or use the online portal, reliable transportation to your medical appointments is readily available. Remember to plan ahead, call Verida at 855-325-7586 for any transportation needs, and prioritize your health and well-being.
