Starting a Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) Business in Missouri

Starting a Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) Business in MissouriTo start an NEMT business in Missouri, you need to follow these steps:

Obtain Required Licenses and Permits

In Missouri, you don’t need a specific license or permit to operate an NEMT business. However, you must comply with the regulations set by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and the Missouri HealthNet Division (MHD), which oversees the state’s NEMT program.

Register Your Business

Register your NEMT business with the Missouri Secretary of State’s office. You can register as a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. Consult with an attorney or accountant to choose the best option for your business structure.

Obtain Insurance Coverage

NEMT businesses in Missouri require commercial auto insurance and general liability insurance. Recommended insurance providers that specialize in NEMT coverage include National Interstate Insurance Company, Lancer Insurance Company, and James River Insurance Company. Ensure your coverage meets the state’s minimum requirements, which typically include $1 million in liability coverage per vehicle.

Acquire Vehicles

For an NEMT business, you’ll need vehicles equipped to transport passengers with mobility issues. Recommended vehicle types include:

• Wheelchair-accessible vans: Ford Transit, Dodge Grand Caravan, Toyota Sienna
• Non-emergency ambulances: Ford E-Series, Chevrolet G-Series, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Consider purchasing new or used vehicles from reputable dealers or auctions specializing in NEMT vehicles.

Hire and Train Staff

Your staff should include drivers, dispatchers, and administrative personnel. Drivers must have a valid Missouri driver’s license, a clean driving record, and potentially a commercial driver’s license (CDL) depending on the vehicle type.Recommended training for NEMT staff includes:

• CPR and first aid certification
• Passenger assistance and wheelchair securement
• HIPAA compliance and patient confidentiality
• Defensive driving and safe transportation practices

Organizations like the National Transit Institute and the Community Transportation Association of America offer NEMT-specific training programs.

Establish Billing and Reimbursement Processes

NEMT services in Missouri are covered by the state’s Medicaid program, MO HealthNet. To receive reimbursement, you’ll need to enroll as a transportation provider with the MO HealthNet Division’s contracted broker, currently MTM, Inc. Follow their procedures for submitting claims and receiving payment.

Market Your Services

Develop a marketing strategy to promote your NEMT business to potential clients, such as healthcare facilities, nursing homes, and social service organizations in Missouri. Create a professional website, distribute brochures and business cards, and consider advertising in local publications or directories.By following these steps and adhering to state regulations, you can establish a successful NEMT business in Missouri, providing essential transportation services to those in need.