Transportation
Getting Where You Need to Go
As a member of Elderplan Plus Long-Term Care (HMO-POS D-SNP), you have three transportation options to help you get where you need to go.
Depending on where you’re going and the type of trip you need, transportation may be available for medical appointments, health-related services and certain everyday needs. Each option works a little differently, so it’s important to know which one to use before scheduling your ride.
Below, you’ll find information about your three transportation options, including what each one can be used for, how to schedule a ride and who to contact if you need help.
Option 1
Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)
Medicaid covers rides to and from medical appointments; Elderplan does not manage this benefit. The New York State Department of Health oversees this benefit, and Medicaid Answering Services (MAS) arranges your rides. You can use NEMT to get to and from medical appointments, such as:
- Doctor and specialist visits
- Dental appointments
- Urgent care center visits
- Dialysis and other ongoing treatments
- Hospital visits
Option 2
Community Rides
Elderplan is pleased to offer Community Rides through your expanded OTC benefit (SSBCI), giving you the freedom to travel to destinations unrelated to your medical care. You can use rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft or public transportation, such as buses or trains, for:
- Visiting friends and family
- Trips to pharmacies, grocery stores, house of worship, bank or post office.
- Fitness and senior centers
Option 3
Worldwide Emergency Transportation
Your plan also covers emergency transportation anywhere in the world, with a $0 copay and a maximum annual benefit of $50,000. If you’re more than 100 miles from home or outside the country for up to 90 consecutive days, travel assistance is available through Assist America® travel assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do rides cost MAS?
Medicaid Transportation
Medicaid provides transportation to and from non-emergency medical appointments through MAS at no cost to you.
Community Rides
With Community Rides, the cost of your trip depends on the rideshare app or transportation option you choose, as well as where you’re going. You can use your OTC + Flex card to pay for eligible travel expenses, up to your available monthly allowance.
How do I arrange a ride through MAS?
Medical rides are arranged by Medical Answering Services (MAS), overseen by the NY State Department of Health. Call the number for your county to book, or visit Medicaid Answering Services MAS
- NYC (Bronx, Kings/Brooklyn, New York/Manhattan, Queens, Richmond/Staten Island), Nassau, Westchester, or Putnam: Call 1-844-666-6270
- Dutchess, Orange, or Rockland: 1-866-932-7740
What if I use a wheelchair?
If you use a wheelchair, you can still use your transportation options.
For non-emergency medical transportation through MAS, let them know about your mobility needs when scheduling your ride so they can arrange an appropriate type of transportation.
For Community Rides, accessible transportation options may vary depending on the service you choose. If you use public transportation, check with the transit provider before you travel to learn about accessible routes, vehicles and services available to you.
Can someone come with me ?
Depending on the transportation option you use, you may be able to have someone travel with you.
- For MAS transportation, let MAS know when you schedule your ride if you need someone to accompany you. They can tell you whether an escort or companion can ride with you and if any requirements apply.
- For Community Rides, whether someone can travel with you depends on the transportation option you choose. Your companion may also be charged a fare or additional fee. Check with the rideshare or public transportation provider for availability and costs before you travel.
How far in advance do I need to book?
For routine medical appointments, schedule your ride with MAS at least 3 days in advance. If you have an urgent medical need and need transportation the same day, MAS can accommodate same-day ride requests. Call MAS as soon as you know you need a ride.
For Community Rides, how far in advance you need to plan depends on the transportation option you choose. Some rideshare services let you request a ride when you need it, while public transportation follows scheduled routes and times. Check your transportation option in advance so you have enough time to get where you need to go.
What if I’m not sure when my medical appointment will end?
Ask the MAS representative when you book how return rides are handled in your area.
Who do I call if my medical ride is late or doesn’t show up?
Contact MAS at your county number as soon as possible.
What should I have ready when I call?
- Your name, date of birth, and Medicaid ID number (CIN)
- The date and time of your appointment
- The name, address, and phone number of the medical facility
- Your pick-up time and location — and whether you need a return trip
- If you need to cancel or reschedule, contact MAS as soon as possible.
What ride-share Apps can use with my Community Rides benefit?
You can use Uber, Lyft or any form of transportation that accepts Visa’