Medicaid Services
What types of companies offer private transport?
Businesses like Acc Medlink offering private medical transportation include ambulance operators, paratransit providers, and hospital fleets.
What types of staff are utilized?
Private ambulance companies employ EMTs and paramedics to administer both basic and advanced life support.
What is the difference between an EMT and a paramedic?
An EMT has between 80-150 hours of training, depending on the state where they’re employed. A paramedic has considerably more training, between 500-1,500 hours.
MEDICAID SERVICES
What is Medicaid?
Medicaid is a government-funded program that subsidizes medical costs for people with limited income. Each state has its own eligibility and application requirements. You can contact your state Medicaid program to see if you qualify.
What is a Medicaid broker?
This is an agent hired by a state to manage its Medicaid program for non-emergency medical transportation. The broker enrolls and contracts with transport providers. Companies offering transportation services can be:
- ambulances
- paratransit operators
- private businesses
- taxis
A Medicaid broker will:
- determine whether a transportation provider is licensed and qualified
- pre-authorize services
- coordinate transportation for Medicaid clients
If you receive transportation services through Medicaid, the provider will be qualified, reliable, experienced, and courteous. Brokers ensure that all contracted transporters meet these criteria.
OBTAINING RELIABLE NON-MEDICAID SERVICES
If I don’t have Medicaid, how can I be sure a transport provider is reliable?
Ask a provider whether it is accredited. Accreditation is a process whereby a company voluntarily submits to assessment by a government agency. Companies not in compliance with the agency’s high standards are given the chance to improve. Once the agency’s requirements are met, the provider receives accreditation standing. The company pays three fees for this privilege – registration, annual, and renewal fees. Accreditation is your assurance that a transporter is first-rate.
What aspects of operation are assessed?
The accrediting agency examines management and medical protocols. If a company provides air transport, flight operations are also critiqued. The evaluation process typically takes between 4-6 months. The agency investigates both emergency and non-emergency services, including:
- medical care
- infection control
- safe handling of biologic and chemical agents
- dispatch operations
- vehicle operation and safety
- facility management and safety
- staff education and qualifications
