What is VA transportation?

The Department of Veterans Affairs pays for or provides transportation to VA medical care through several programs: the Beneficiary Travel program reimburses eligible veterans for mileage or pays for special-mode transport (wheelchair van, stretcher, ambulance), the Veterans Transportation Service operates VA-owned vehicles, and VA medical centers contract with local NEMT and ambulance providers for trips they cannot cover themselves.

Why VA transportation matters for NEMT

VA contracts are a payer outside the Medicaid system, with federal payment terms and stable volume around each VA medical center. They are won through federal procurement, which means registering in SAM.gov, responding to solicitations and meeting the contract's insurance, vehicle and driver requirements. Our guide to government funding and grants for NEMT providers covers where to look and how to prepare.

Related terms

• Managed Care Organization (MCO)
• Medicaid
• Medicare Advantage
• Facility Contract
• Fee-for-Service Medicaid