Does Medicaid Cover Non-Emergency Medical Transportation in New Hampshire?

If you or someone you care for relies on Medicaid in New Hampshire and struggles to get to medical appointments, there is financial help available. New Hampshire Medicaid covers non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) as a mandatory benefit for eligible members. That means the cost of getting to a doctor, dialysis center, or specialist visit can be covered, but only when you use an approved process and a qualified provider.

This guide explains exactly how Medicaid NEMT works in New Hampshire, who qualifies, what is covered, and how to arrange a ride so you never miss a critical appointment due to cost or logistics.

What Is Medicaid NEMT Coverage?

Under federal Medicaid law, states are required to provide transportation to and from covered medical services for eligible members who have no other means of getting there. New Hampshire administers this benefit through its Medicaid Managed Care program, currently operated through managed care organizations (MCOs).

The coverage is specifically for non-emergency medical transportation, meaning you do not need an ambulance, but you cannot reasonably get to your appointment without assistance. This includes transportation to:

• Primary care and specialist physician visits
• Dialysis treatments
• Mental health and substance use disorder appointments
• Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
• Lab work and diagnostic imaging
• Dental and vision appointments covered by Medicaid
• Hospital discharge transportation

Transportation to the emergency room is handled separately and is not part of NEMT coverage.

Who Qualifies for Medicaid NEMT in New Hampshire?

To use Medicaid NEMT in New Hampshire, you must meet both of these conditions:

• You are enrolled in New Hampshire Medicaid (NH Medicaid or a managed care plan through NH Healthy Families, Well Sense Health Plan, or Granite State Health Plan)
• You have no other way to get to your medical appointment, meaning you do not own a working vehicle, cannot use public transportation due to a medical condition or disability, and do not have a family member able to transport you

The eligibility requirement is important. Medicaid does not automatically pay for transportation if you have access to another option. You will be asked about your situation when you request a ride.

If you are unsure whether you qualify, call your managed care plan directly. Do not assume you do not qualify without checking. Many patients leave this benefit unused simply because they were not aware of it.

How to Request a Medicaid NEMT Ride in New Hampshire

The process for getting a Medicaid-covered ride depends on which managed care organization you are enrolled in. Here is the general process:

Step 1: Contact Your MCO at Least 3 Business Days in Advance

Call the NEMT phone number listed on the back of your Medicaid ID card. Most managed care plans require at least 72 hours advance notice for scheduled appointments. Last-minute requests may still be accommodated for urgent visits, but same-day approval is not guaranteed.

Step 2: Provide Your Appointment Details

When you call, have the following ready:

• Your Medicaid member ID number
• The date, time, and address of your appointment
• The name of the medical provider you are seeing
• Your pickup address
• Whether you need a return trip
• Any mobility equipment you use (wheelchair, walker, oxygen, etc.)

Step 3: Receive Confirmation and Ride Details

Your MCO will confirm the transportation arrangement and provide the name of the transportation provider, the estimated pickup time, and a confirmation number. Keep this information. If the ride does not arrive on time, call your MCO immediately.

What Types of Vehicles Are Covered?

Medicaid NEMT covers the least expensive mode of transportation appropriate for your medical condition. This typically means:

• Ambulatory transport for members who can walk and do not require special equipment
• Wheelchair-accessible van transport for members who use a manual or power wheelchair
• Stretcher transport for members who cannot sit upright due to a medical condition
• Stairchair transport when a member lives in a building without elevator access and cannot use stairs

U Transportation Services is equipped to provide all four of these service types for patients in New Hampshire. Our drivers are trained in patient assistance and our vehicles meet all state requirements for NEMT providers.

What Medicaid NEMT Does Not Cover

Understanding what is excluded helps you plan ahead. Medicaid NEMT in New Hampshire generally does not cover:

• Transportation to appointments that are not covered Medicaid services
• Transportation for family members or companions, with limited exceptions for minors or patients who require a certified attendant
• Emergency ambulance transportation
• Transportation arranged without prior authorization through your MCO
• Trips to pick up prescriptions in most cases

What If Medicaid Denies or Does Not Cover Your Trip?

If your NEMT request is denied or you are not enrolled in Medicaid, you still have options:

• Private pay NEMT: You can book directly with a licensed NEMT provider like U Transportation Services and pay out of pocket. Rates are transparent and often far less expensive than a standard ambulance.
• Appeal a denial: If your MCO denies an NEMT request and you believe you qualify, you have the right to appeal. Contact your plan for the appeals process.
• Facility coordination: Many hospitals, dialysis centers, and rehab facilities have social workers who can help coordinate transportation for patients being discharged or attending regular appointments.

Booking Private Pay NEMT in New Hampshire

For patients who prefer to book directly, or whose Medicaid coverage does not apply for a specific trip, U Transportation Services offers simple online and phone booking. You are not required to go through a managed care plan to use our services.

We serve patients across New Hampshire for all medical transport needs including wheelchair transport, stretcher transport, stairchair service, and ambulatory door-to-door rides. Call us at (603) 264-1307 or book online to schedule your trip. We recommend booking at least 24 hours in advance for non-urgent trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Medicaid pay for transportation to the pharmacy?

In most cases, no. Medicaid NEMT is intended for transportation to covered medical appointments, not to pick up prescriptions. Some exceptions may apply depending on your plan and the specific situation.

Can I choose my own NEMT provider with Medicaid?

Generally, your MCO assigns an approved provider. However, if you have a preference, you can request a specific provider when you call. Whether the MCO accommodates that request depends on the plan and the provider network.

What do I do if my ride does not show up?

Call your MCO immediately using the number on your Medicaid card. Document the time and who you spoke with. You may also be able to arrange alternate transportation and submit for reimbursement, though this requires pre-authorization in most cases.

Is NEMT available for mental health appointments?

Yes. Medicaid NEMT covers transportation to mental health and substance use disorder appointments if they are covered Medicaid services and you meet the eligibility criteria.