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Nearly 5.8 million Americans miss or delay their healthcare due to a lack of transportation, according to a study in the American Journal of Public Health. That is nearly 16,000 people per day in the United States that are not seeing their doctor, many of those people have chronic conditions where a missed appointment can have a serious adverse effect on their health. As a country, we have long known that providing transportation to Medicaid patients is an essential benefit. Since 1965, Medicaid has had a non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) benefit and over 84.8 million people are enrolled in Medicaid as of 2021. According to a new KFF Medicaid budget survey, states are anticipating growth of 4.5% in Medicaid membership in 2022, largely driven by COVID impacts and the high unemployment rate. As Medicaid enrollment and Medicaid eligibility expansion occurs, the need for NEMT services grows as well.  

Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) provides services to patients who have difficulties getting to and from medical appointments, social services, or behavioral health services because they are unable to access transportation on their own. That might be because they live in a rural area without access to public transportation, lack a driver’s license or vehicle, have challenges getting friends or family to provide rides, or have physical or cognitive challenges that prevent them from driving. Sometimes it’s as simple as patients who are elderly and do not feel comfortable getting behind the wheel, and in their desire to remain independent, do not want to reach out to friends and family for a ride to the doctor. 

Non-emergency medical transportation is not just for routine trips to the doctor’s office. It also applies to patients who need a ride home after an emergency room visit, need to be transferred between hospitals to receive specialized care, or need to get to a food bank, to job training or to pick up medications at the pharmacy. 

The need for medical transportation providers (wheelchair vans, non-emergency ambulances) and the technology to efficiently coordinate rides for patients is estimated to grow at a rate of 6.5% per year for the next 5 years, based on recent industry reports. The past year exposed many of the weaknesses in the NEMT system and the vulnerabilities of our aging, rural, and low socioeconomic households. With our ability to provide all levels of NEMT, and capability to launch new clients in as little as 2-4 weeks, Integrity Medical Transportation is ready to help hospitals, clinics and community-based organizations solve their medical transportation challenges and get vulnerable and underserved populations to the care that they deserve.

Using a non-emergency medical transportation service for the first time can feel a bit stressful. After all, anything new can cause a bit of anxiety. Integrity Medical Transportation is there for all your medical transportation needs. If you are looking for medical transportation services in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan Area, there are things you can do to ease the stress of using these services.

Thoroughly Plan Ahead

When using wheelchair transportation services in and around the outskirts of Dallas, planning ahead can go a long way. Make sure your driver knows about all the stops you need to make during a trip before the actual trip takes place. You can make sure of this by explaining everything when you schedule the transportation appointment. No one likes making u-turns or missing a stop. Providing the driver with a detailed list of stops can ensure there is no backtracking during your trip which can be frustrating for everyone involved. Get everywhere you need to go without missing anything by giving Integrity Medical Transportation a call today.

Take Everything you Need for the Trip

Sometimes we just don’t know how long a trip will actually take because delays arise, especially if you live in a large city. No matter the length of time the trip will take, you need to be sure you have everything you need to cover the length of time you will be away. Items such as medications and medical supplies. However, you should only bring what you need to avoid having too much to carry or losing items along the way. Using disabled transportation services is an opportunity to get your independence back. Get where you need to go without a care with Integrity Medical Transportation.

Provide the Driver with a List of Emergency Contacts and Other Information

Although you may have provided all this information when you set up your medical transportation services in the Dallas area, you should still have an additional list of information readily available for your driver for an emergency. This includes a list of contacts, what hospital you would like to be transported too if necessary, a list of current medications and other crucial medical information. This information could be a lifesaver in the event of a major medical situation. When you need emergency care, you don’t want those caring for you to have to waste time searching for the information necessary for your treatment. Put those worries aside by not only giving the company this information but also to the driver and everyone involved with your transportation.

Integrity Medical Transportation can help with all your wheelchair transportation service in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan Area . Using these services doesn’t have to be a stressful experience and Integrity Medical Transportation can assist in eliminating that stress. Getting where you need to go should be worry free each time, no matter what your medical needs are, and no matter where you need to go. Give Integrity Medical Transportation a call today or send us an email to get started.

Tips for Staying Healthy Through the Holidays

1. Make your plans with the pandemic in mind

Though we all want to forget about everything going on in the world and have a normal Christmas, it’s important to make your holiday plans while considering the pandemic. If you’re deciding between a holiday with friends or a holiday with family, check COVID-19 rates in both areas. If you have immune compromised family members, it may be a good idea to stay home this Christmas unless you can commit to staying away from others for a few weeks before going to see them.

2. Wear a mask and social distance

Masks and social distancing are two of the greatest tools we have for reducing the transmission of COVID-19. While you may feel safe at home with your friends who all work from home and are vaccinated, the holidays bring on a lot of unknown people. Making the decision to wear a mask ahead of time is a great way to protect yourself, and typically when you wear a mask it’s an easy indicator to others that you’d like to remain socially distanced as well.

3. Get vaccinated

If you’re doing any international travel, this may not be an option for you as many places require vaccines. Even if you’re staying at home though, getting vaccinated is a great way to reduce the transmission. As some people report feeling flu-ish the day after their shot, getting it right before the holidays is a great excuse for a relaxing day at home!

4. Consider alternatives to big group gatherings

While we all love big family get togethers, it may not be possible due to the pandemic. With big families comes little babies and older grandparents, both of which are at a higher risk for contracting COVID-19. Consider alternatives to these group gatherings, like Zoom meetings, or breaking celebrations up into smaller celebrations.

5. Don’t feel bad for saying no

It is difficult to say no to loved ones, especially when it comes to the holidays. When it comes to your health, you are the only one who has your best interest in mind, and you are the only one who can truly stand up for yourself. If you have to say no this year, say no! Make plans to visit your grandparents later on in the year, plan for dinner with your cousin in the spring, or come to your parents’ house with dessert another time. If you feel like no is the best answer, say no. Don’t let anyone make you feel bad about it!

Stay Safe this Holiday Season!

The holidays are a great time to spend with family, but they can also be a great time to pass around illnesses. Whatever you decide to do this year, be sure to keep the pandemic in mind and do everything possible to reduce the risk of transmission for you and your loved ones.

Have a safe and Merry Christmas, and Happy Holidays!

Cold and flu season is in full swing which means lots of runny noses, germy surfaces, and infections going around. While the past two years have seen lower cold and flu numbers than before due to masks, this year numbers are expected to rise again as a result of mask requirements going away. We all know to wash our hands, get our vaccines, and wear masks when in highly populated areas to reduce the risk of getting sick. Did you know that there are many foods out there that can actually boost your immune system?  If you’re doing everything you can to prevent getting sick and you’re looking for something extra, immune boosting foods are the way to go this cold and flu season.

Disclaimer

While this article touches on foods that work to boost your immune system naturally to help fight off and prevent the cold and flu, it is important to note that they have not been proven to do anything in regard to COVID-19. To prevent COVID-19, the best course of action is to get vaccinated, wear your mask, disinfect, and wash your hands, social distance, and avoid highly populated areas.

It is also important to note that this article is not to be taken as medical advice. If you have any health issues or concerns, it is important to consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet. These foods can be used in conjunction with regular healthcare to promote natural immunity but should not be used as an alternative to medicine.

Foods to Boost Your Immune System

Eating fresh foods are a great way to boost your immune system and keep it operating at peak performance through the cold months.

We’ve compiled a list of some of the top immune-boosting foods:

• Water

Are you surprised to see water on this list? One of the best ways to boost your immune system and prevent illness is to stay hydrated. Your body is primarily made of water, and water work hard to carry immune system cells through the body. No matter what you eat, if you don’t drink enough water than your body won’t be able to carry the nutrients where they need to go.

• Elderberry

Elderberry is one of the most notorious foods used for its immune-boosting properties. Elderberry syrup flies off the shelf this time of year. Elderberry is packed full of antioxidants which can help fight inflammation. There have even been studies conducted that prove that these berries can block flu viruses, though more research may need to be done to prove a solid hypothesis.

• Citrus Fruits

Have you ever been told to drink a glass of orange juice when you’re not feeling well? It’s probably because of the Vitamin C. Vitamin C is found in high amounts in almost every citrus fruit. Vitamin C works hard to increase white blood cells in the body. These cells then work to fight off infections.

• Red Bell Peppers

Did you know that red bell peppers actually have three times more Vitamin C in them than a Florida orange? In addition, they also contain beta carotene, which converts to Vitamin A and is an anti-inflammatory that helps your body’s natural antibodies respond to viruses and toxins.

• Broccoli

Broccoli is one of the best vegetables that you can choose to eat. It is loaded with vitamins like vitamin A, C, and E. It also consists of plenty of antioxidants and fiber, making it a great choice to fend off and prevent illness.

• Ginger

Ginger is notorious for helping with nausea, which is why so many people reach for a can of ginger ale when they’re feeling a stomach-ache. Did you know that it can also help with inflammation? Ginger is a great option if you’re dealing with stomach or throat issues, as it curbs nausea and decreases inflammation which results in less symptoms.

Eating Healthy Pays Off!

There are so many foods out there that work to boost your immune system and they’re all fresh foods. Eating healthy is one of the best things that you can do for yourself this cold and flu season because all of the fruits and vegetables out there work hard to help your body fight off infections. What you put in your body is so important, especially with all of the illnesses running rampant out there.

Eat smart, wash your hands, and mask up! Stay safe and healthy.

Black Friday is one of the most popular times of the year, but it can always be one of the most dangerous! With crowds running full speed to the hottest deals and flu season running amuck, it’s important to know how to keep yourself safe during this holiday season.

1. Shop Online Whenever Possible

Did you know that most retailers have online stores that carry the same inventory as they do in stores? Most of them also have the same deals available for Black Friday, or they offer Cyber Monday deals instead!

Shopping online is a great way to stay out of the crowds and keep yourself safe. As you’re not around others, you’re not exposed to any of the dangers of in-person shopping. Shop in your pajamas from the comfort of your home with a hot chocolate or eggnog in hand. It doesn’t get better than that!

2. Wear a Mask

While the COVID-19 pandemic has been here to stay throughout all of the seasons, the colder weather brings in even more illnesses. With large crowds, the risk of infection rises, and the odds of you getting sick are pretty high.

Wearing a face mask is a great way to minimize the risk. Ensure that your mask is clean and is fitted properly so that it is covering both your nose and mouth fully. With the holidays coming up, this isn’t the time of the year that you want to get sick!

3. Utilize Curbside Pickup

Many stores offer curbside pickup, which is a great way to get out of the house while also avoiding the masses.

Most of the stores that offer curbside also have Black Friday sales that start earlier than actual Black Friday. Grab your jacket, load up the kids, and pick up your sale items in a safe way!

4. Sanitize and Wash your Hands Frequently

With Black Friday comes tons of germs. People are constantly picking things up, checking the price tag, and then putting them back down again. This is a recipe for germ spread!

If you decide to go out for Black Friday, make sure that you bring a bottle of hand sanitizer with you. You should be sanitizing your hands before you enter the store and after you leave. Be sure to avoid touching your face while in the store, as this spreads germs to sensitive areas like your mouth, nose, and eyes!

5. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Black Friday is notorious for attracting huge crowds that sprint to the best deals, even if these deals aren’t much of a deal. You must be aware of your surroundings while Black Friday shopping and weigh risks.

If a store is packed to the brim and you walk in and see fighting and huge crowds, is it worth a T.V. that’s only discounted $50? Can you find the same T.V. online? The most important thing is your safety. You need to be able to assess risks and be aware of your surroundings at all times while Black Friday shopping. If you find yourself in an unsafe situation, leave. Huge rowdy crowds are not worth it, no matter how discounted the items are!

Be Safe this Black Friday!

The easiest way to be safe this Black Friday is to shop from home and take advantage of online Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals. The pandemic has brought great alternatives like curbside pick up as well, which is another great way to shop while avoiding crowds. If you have to go into the store, be sure to mask up, sanitize whenever possible, and be constantly aware of your surroundings. Your safety is most important and a trip to the hospital will cost more than what you would’ve saved on that discounted T.V.!

There are so many important pieces of information to look for when selecting a medical transportation company that it’s hard to figure out where to start. Couple this list with your individual research to ensure that you find a properly vetted and safe company that is right for you and your needs!

Ongoing Staff Training

There is NOTHING in the medical field that is learned through a “one and done” course. Whether you’re an ambulance driver or a surgeon, your training should be ongoing and consistent. Look for companies that hire those that have been properly trained before starting the job, but make sure that they are also keeping up with training after they’ve been working for some time. Industry standards change, medical conditions are constantly evolving, and it’s important for your medical transportation company to be up to date on the latest technology and information.

Strict Safety Standards

It may come as no surprise but ensuring that your medical transportation company meets basic safety standards is vital. If you go into an office, look for things like safety reminders placed on the walls. Something as simple as correctly lifting a patient can be the difference between a full recovery for that patient or further damage. It is SO important to ensure that your transportation company is being safe and following all procedures!

Constant Vehicle Tracking System

You should never get in a car with a stranger unless that vehicle is being tracked and monitored. This ensures that someone can see all stops, hard stops, and can monitor the speed of the vehicle you’re traveling in. In case of an emergency, it’s important to have accountability and a tracking system provides that.

Top of the Line Translation Services

If you find yourself abroad or if you primarily speak a language that is not the primary language being used around you wherever you are, ensuring that your medical transportation company has an employee or a translator available to you is vital. Medical translators are skilled in medically specific terminology and can break down things for you to ensure that you’re aware of every single step along the way. Being informed is imperative when it comes to your medical journey, and you have every right to a translator.

This list is not comprehensive by any means, as medical needs will always vary from person to person. If you or a loved one is seeking out a medical transportation company, the best thing to do is to sit down and write out your list of concerns and needs. Having a list of questions prepared before the initial meetings will give you time to think of anything you may otherwise miss, ensuring your medical transportation company is properly vetted and ready to take care of you.

If you’re looking for a good place to start while searching for a medical transportation company, visit Integrity Medical Transport online for a list of the services offered and FAQ about medical transportation.

Non-emergency medical transportation is a key service that has been helping individuals and families for generations. Everyone needs medical care and attention. Though things like lack of personal transportation, inability to drive, or residence in a rural area may make it harder for some to obtain the care they need, medical transportation seeks to bridge that gap.

To be clear, there are two official forms of medical transportation. Emergency medical transportation refers to things like ambulances, while non-emergency medical transportation refers to transportation provided so that individuals can obtain medical services and attend appointments. The vast majority of people have heard of emergency medical transportation, but many have never heard of non-emergency transportation.

What Does Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Do?

Non-emergency medical transportation offers a critical service to communities by providing individuals and their caretakers with transportation to appointments, to pick up medication, and to ensure they have around the clock access to their doctors even if they don’t have their own transportation to get there.

The following are examples of why someone may utilize non-emergency medical transportation.

Individual is Unable to Drive Themselves

Whether it is because of a disability, a lack of license, or another undisclosed reason, there are many individuals that are unable to drive themselves to medical appointments for a number of reasons. Medical transportation ensures that they arrive to their appointments on time and safe.

Individual Has No Personal Transportation

Not everyone has their own personal car, and that’s okay! It is not a requirement, but it is also not a reason to skip medical appointments or treatment. Medical transport ensures that even if you have no personal transportation, you can still get to your appointments.

Individual Lives in a Rural Area

Living in a rural area away from everything can cause many issues, especially when it comes to getting to your doctor’s appointments. Even if you have your own car and can drive, you may not be able to drive long distances. In addition, individuals in cities can utilize public transportation in some instances while those in rural communities often do not have this option. Medical transportation allows these individuals to get to their appointments, no matter how far away they are.

Individual Has Mobility Issues/Medical Equipment

Traveling with mobility issues or medical equipment can be very stressful. Public transportation, though an excellent option for some, is exponentially more difficult to navigate when you have to factor in a wheelchair, a service animal, an oxygen tank, or any other kind of medical equipment. Many individuals delay care to avoid dealing with public transportation because of their equipment or mobility issues, which is why medical transportation is vital. Experienced staff to transport these individuals from their homes to their appointments and back again, while ensuring they get to their doctors safely is essential and takes a lot of the stress and guess work out.

Individual Needs Basic Medical Care During Transportation

Many individuals require medical care during transportation. Any medical emergency requires an emergency transport like an ambulance, but for non-emergency transportation, taking an ambulance is costly and unnecessary. Medical transportation takes care of individuals that need basic medical attention throughout their transportation journey. This is especially important with appointments that may be hours away.

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation is Essential for Many Individuals

These examples are just a few cases where non-emergency medical transportation is essential. There are so many more instances and specific situations that would benefit from medically trained staff and safe transportation.

Non-emergency medical transportation bridges the gap between individuals and getting to their appointments and obtaining necessary medications. It is a necessary and important service that keeps individuals healthy, safe, and cared for no matter where they’re going or what time of day it is.