Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) providers do more than move passengers—they serve as a lifeline to care, connection, and community. With such a vital role comes real responsibility, and at Rollo Insurance, we believe in making sure you’re covered for the road ahead. Whether you’re transporting patients to life-saving treatments or routine checkups, your business carries both people and risk. That’s why we take the time to understand your operation and build an insurance plan that’s tailored to your specific needs—so you can keep serving others with confidence, clarity, and care.
What is Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) Insurance?
NEMT insurance is a specialized type of commercial auto insurance designed to address the specific risks faced by businesses that transport individuals to non-emergency medical appointments. It goes beyond standard commercial auto coverage to account for the unique needs of passengers who may have mobility challenges, require assistance, or have specific medical conditions.
Paratransit Insurance vs. Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Insurance: Is There a Difference?
The terms paratransit insurance and Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) insurance are often used interchangeably. Both refer to insurance coverage for transportation services that cater to individuals with disabilities or medical conditions who require assistance beyond typical taxi or ride-sharing services.
While there might be subtle distinctions in specific contexts, such as the types of vehicles used or the level of assistance provided, for insurance purposes, policies marketed as paratransit insurance and NEMT insurance generally offer similar core coverages tailored to this industry. It’s always best to review the specifics of any policy to ensure it meets your business’s unique operational needs.
What Does NEMT Insurance Cover?
A comprehensive NEMT insurance policy typically includes several key coverages:
- Commercial Auto Liability Insurance: This is a foundational coverage that protects your business from financial losses if your vehicle is involved in an accident that causes bodily injury or property damage to others. Given the nature of NEMT services, with passengers often requiring assistance entering and exiting vehicles, the liability aspect extends beyond just accidents on the road.
- Hired and Non-Owned Auto Liability: This provides coverage if your business uses vehicles you don’t own, such as employees using their personal vehicles for NEMT purposes.
- Medical Payments Coverage: This can help pay for medical expenses for your passengers and drivers who are injured in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. This coverage can be particularly important for ensuring prompt medical attention for passengers.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: This protects your business and your passengers if your vehicle is involved in an accident with a driver who has no insurance or insufficient insurance to cover the damages.
- Commercial Auto Physical Damage Coverage (Collision and Comprehensive):
- Collision: Covers damage to your NEMT vehicles if they collide with another vehicle or object.
- Comprehensive: Covers damage to your NEMT vehicles from other perils such as fire, theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. Protecting your specialized vehicles is crucial for maintaining your service.
- Passenger Liability Coverage: This is a critical coverage specific to NEMT businesses. It provides protection against claims arising from injuries sustained by passengers during transportation, including while entering or exiting the vehicle, or due to the driver’s alleged negligence in assisting them.
- Professional Liability (Errors & Omissions) Insurance: While not always included in a standard NEMT policy, Professional Liability insurance can protect your business from claims alleging negligence in the services you provide, such as improper assistance, missed appointments due to scheduling errors, or inadequate passenger care during transit.
- Workers’ Compensation Insurance: If you employ drivers and other staff, this coverage is typically required by law and covers medical expenses and lost wages for employees injured on the job.
- General Liability Insurance: This protects your business from claims of bodily injury or property damage that occur at your business premises (e.g., an injury in your office waiting area) or due to your general business operations, excluding vehicle-related incidents.
What are the unique risks with NEMT?
NEMT businesses face specific risks that necessitate tailored insurance coverage:
- Passenger Assistance Incidents: The risk of injury to passengers during boarding, deboarding, and securement is higher than in standard transportation services.
- Wheelchair and Mobility Device Securement: Improper securement of wheelchairs and other mobility devices can lead to injuries during transit.
- Medical Emergencies During Transport: While not emergency medical services, NEMT providers may encounter passengers experiencing medical issues during transport.
- HIPAA Compliance: Protecting the privacy and security of passengers’ medical information is crucial. While insurance doesn’t prevent breaches, it can help cover costs associated with violations.
- Accessibility Requirements: Ensuring vehicles and services comply with ADA regulations is vital, and insurance can help cover legal costs related to accessibility claims.
Rollo Insurance: Your Partner in Ensuring Protection
Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) plays a vital role in connecting people to the care they need. With that responsibility comes unique risks—both on and off the road. At Rollo Insurance, we understand the compassion and commitment behind every ride, and we’re here to help you safeguard the service you provide. With tailored insurance solutions built for NEMT operations, you can move forward with confidence, knowing your passengers, drivers, and community are covered. Reach out today to explore how we can support your mission of care and reliability.
Ready to get started?
Find Your Local Office
