📰 NEMT Monthly News Update December 2025

Your Monthly NEMT Roundup of Industry Trends, Policy Changes & Transport Insights

1. Federal Push for Strengthening Medicaid NEMT Coverage

Lawmakers in several states have renewed efforts to protect Medicaid-funded Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) after ongoing federal discussions about modifying coverage requirements.

Several advocacy groups, including transportation access coalitions and patient rights organizations, are urging CMS to adopt stronger nationwide NEMT standards, arguing that transportation remains one of the top barriers to care for low-income patients.

Key Takeaways:

• Medicaid NEMT remains under federal review.

• Advocates are pushing for higher national accountability standards.

• States request clearer guidance for audit rules and documentation practices.

  
  

2. Rising Concerns Over Fraud & Trip Verification

Following multiple investigations into fraudulent billing in several regions, especially tied to “ghost rides,” inflated mileage, and undocumented wait times, states are increasing pressure on transportation providers.

New York, Florida, Illinois, and Texas are among states enhancing:

• Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) requirements

• GPS-stamped pickup/drop-off logs

• Digital passenger confirmation tools

Providers nationwide are preparing for what many believe will become mandatory digital trip verification in all Medicaid NEMT networks.

3. Driver Certification Standards Under Review

Several states are reviewing the possibility of nationalizing basic NEMT driver requirements, which currently vary widely by region. Proposed discussions include:

• Nationwide CPR & First Aid certification

• Mandatory ADA securement training

• Standardized background checks

• Annual recertification for wheelchair and stretcher operations

This could bring more consistency and safety across the industry — and help facilities better understand what they should expect from a qualified NEMT driver.

4. Increased Demand for Transportation Among Seniors

With senior populations growing rapidly, especially in suburban and rural communities, NEMT demand has increased by nearly 18% over the past year, according to regional reports.

Facilities are reporting:

• Higher transport needs for mobility-impaired patients

• Increased demand for recurring dialysis and physical therapy rides

• Greater need for wheelchair and stretcher availability

• More delayed discharges due to transport shortages

This trend is expected to continue into 2026 and beyond.

5. Gas Prices & Operational Costs Impact NEMT Providers

Rising fuel prices and inflation continue to affect small and mid-sized NEMT providers.

NEMT companies report:

• A 6–12% increase in fuel-related expenses

• Higher insurance premiums

• Increased vehicle maintenance costs

• Delays in Medicaid reimbursement

Some providers have begun adjusting pricing for private-pay riders to offset rising operational pressure.

6. Technology: What’s New in NEMT Dispatch & Routing Software

Several major tech companies in the NEMT ecosystem have released new features this month, including:

• Automated routing optimization

• GPS/street-view driver verification

• Real-time facility dashboards

• NEMT-friendly mapping for wheelchair/stretcher transport

• Self-service portals for patients to confirm rides

More facilities are moving toward integrated dispatch systems that let them track their partner’s rides in real time.

7. Workforce: The Country Needs More Certified NEMT Drivers

Driver shortages are becoming a major issue. States report difficulty finding qualified drivers trained in ADA-compliant securement, defensive driving, CPR, and wheelchair safety.

Industry groups are pushing for:

• State incentives for training

• Wage support programs

• Driver tax credits

• Public workforce partnerships

Many organizations agree: better-trained drivers lead to better outcomes — and stronger industry reputation.

8. Big Topic of the Month: Patient Wait Times Are Becoming a National Concern

Patients nationwide are reporting long wait times, sometimes 1 to 3 hours for return rides after appointments.

Hospitals and clinics say this affects:

• Discharge flow

• Patient satisfaction scores

• Appointment scheduling

• Case management workload

Advocacy groups are calling for federal funding to help expand NEMT access and reduce return-time delays.

📌 Conclusion

The NEMT industry continues to evolve rapidly, shaped by new regulations, rising demand, technological growth, and an increasing focus on ethics and accountability.

Staying informed helps transportation providers, healthcare facilities, and patients work together toward a more dependable, transparent, and accessible transportation system.

Your monthly news roundup will continue to deliver the insights and updates that matter most to the NEMT community.