What is an escort?

An escort (or attendant, companion) is a person who accompanies the rider on an NEMT trip because of the rider's age, cognitive condition, or medical need. Payers generally allow one escort at no charge when medically necessary and require it for minors. The escort must be listed on the authorization so dispatch can assign a vehicle with room.

Why escorts matter for NEMT

Escorts affect capacity: an escort takes a seat that could have gone to a multi-loaded rider, and a wheelchair rider plus escort may fill a small van. Dispatch needs the escort flag on the trip before assignment, not at the curb. Drivers should also understand that the escort, not the driver, is responsible for the rider's care during the trip, which keeps the driver within their scope and your insurance.