Taking care of your health is a top priority. This means regular trips to see medical professionals for ongoing, non-emergency care. Whether it\u2019s doctor visits, trips to the pharmacy, physical therapy, or other healthcare facilities, you need a reliable way to get there.\u00a0
\nWhile some seniors can drive themselves or have a spouse or child who can pitch in, others are reliant on friends and neighbors. And as you well know, things can and often do come up.\u00a0
\nWhether it\u2019s your physician who has an emergency and must move the appointment a few hours or days, or a grandchild who unexpectedly needs to be picked up from school. Suddenly your best-laid plans have changed and there\u2019s no one to drive you. Your appointment has to be postponed or canceled, and your good health is put on hold. Thankfully, there are resources, like Medicare Advantage, that can help.
\nBefore we dive deeper, it\u2019s important to note that these services are for non-emergency health matters. If someone\u2019s life is at risk, it\u2019s essential that you dial 911 to get immediate care.
\nMedicare Appointment Transportation: Special Circumstances
\n
\nWhile Medicare (Part A and B) can cover certain non-emergency medical transportation needs, these are primarily reserved for those whose health conditions require specialized care. For example, non-emergency ambulatory services for seniors who can\u2019t risk exposure to other forms of transportation. Such circumstances must be specified by your physician in writing, confirming that your medical condition necessitates it.
Some seniors will qualify for PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) or Medicaid. These programs have their own transportation guidelines and services for those enrolled.\u00a0
\nTo qualify for PACE, you must:
\nTo learn more, visit www.pace4you.org\u00a0
\nFor those enrolled in Medicaid, non-emergency medical transportation assistance may be provided if you meet the eligibility requirements of your state. These might include not having a driver\u2019s license, not owning a working vehicle, having a disability (mental or physical), or being incapable of taking transportation alone. Visit medicaid.gov to learn more.
\nNon Emergency Medical Transportation for Seniors
\nWhat if you\u2019re a senior who doesn\u2019t fall into any of the groups mentioned above? You still need help getting access to the ongoing health services you require. As of 2020, many Medicare Advantage plans have begun offering new benefits to assist with this urgent need. And, depending upon the specifics of your plan, you may be able to take trips to not only physician visits, but also pharmacies, physical therapy appointments, and more.
\nAs with any provider, it\u2019s important to know what options are available so you can choose the one that will best suit your circumstances. Here are a few of the key features to examine, which vary according to each plan:
\nNon-Medicare Transportation Options
\nIf you would like to learn about potential non-Medicare resources in your area that can assist with locating medical transportation for seniors, you may wish to contact your local Area Agency on Aging. You can search for contacts in your region using the Eldercare Locator.\u00a0
\nMake Your Plan Today
\nRegardless of which program you choose, be sure you have a transportation plan in place. Ensuring you have the health care you need has never been more important. And transportation should not stand in the way of receiving it.\u00a0
\nIf you\u2019re driving yourself or relying on one or two close relatives or friends to assist you, keep in mind that circumstances can change over time. When it\u2019s time to hang up your keys for good, or your driver moves away, you won\u2019t want to be left wanting. Give yourself the peace of mind of knowing you have your bases covered. You\u2019ll be so glad you did!
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