What is ambulatory transport?

Ambulatory transport is non-emergency medical transportation for riders who can walk to the vehicle and get in and out with little or no help, including those who use a cane or walker. It can be delivered in a sedan, minivan or SUV and does not require a lift, ramp or securement equipment. Ambulatory is the largest share of Medicaid NEMT trips by volume and the lowest paid per trip.

Why ambulatory transport matters for NEMT

Ambulatory is where most providers start because the barrier to entry is a clean, insured vehicle and a qualified driver. The economics depend on volume and density: thin margins per trip mean you need efficient routing and multi-loading to make money. Ambulatory trips are also the segment most exposed to competition from ride-hailing partnerships that brokers increasingly use for low-acuity riders.

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