How to Qualify for NEMT in Georgia: Eligibility Requirements
Find out if you qualify for non-emergency medical transportation in Georgia. Medicaid eligibility, private pay options, and step-by-step guide to getting approved for NEMT.
Who Can Use NEMT Services in Georgia?
Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in Georgia is available through two main channels: Medicaid-covered rides (free for eligible members) and private NEMT providers (available to everyone). Here’s how each works.
Medicaid NEMT Eligibility
Georgia Medicaid provides free medical transportation to eligible members. To qualify, you must meet all three criteria:
1. Active Georgia Medicaid Enrollment
You must be currently enrolled in one of Georgia’s Medicaid programs:
- ABD Medicaid — For aged, blind, or disabled individuals
- PeachCare for Kids — For children in families with moderate incomes
- TANF Medicaid — For families receiving temporary assistance
- SSI-Related Medicaid — For Supplemental Security Income recipients
- Pregnant Women Medicaid — For expectant mothers
- Aged Medicaid — For seniors 65+
2. Covered Medical Appointment
Your ride must be to a Medicaid-covered medical service with a Medicaid-enrolled provider. Covered services include:
- Primary care and specialist visits
- Dialysis treatments
- Mental and behavioral health appointments
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- Dental visits
- Eye exams and vision care
- Pharmacy visits
- Lab work and imaging
- Hospital discharges
3. No Other Transportation Available
You must demonstrate that you have no other reasonable means of transportation. This means:
- You don’t own a working vehicle
- You can’t drive due to a medical condition or disability
- No family member or friend is available to drive you
- Public transportation is not accessible or practical for your situation
How to Apply for Medicaid NEMT
Step 1: Verify Your Medicaid Status
Check your Georgia Medicaid enrollment by:
- Logging into the Georgia Gateway portal
- Calling Georgia Medicaid at 1-800-766-4456
- Checking your Medicaid card for active dates
Step 2: Contact Verida (Georgia’s NEMT Broker)
As of April 2026, Verida manages all NEMT scheduling for Georgia Medicaid. Contact them to:
- Verify your transportation benefit
- Schedule rides to covered appointments
- Set up recurring transportation for regular treatments
Step 3: Schedule Your First Ride
When booking, have the following ready:
- Medicaid ID number
- Provider/facility name and address
- Appointment date, time, and expected duration
- Any special needs (wheelchair, stretcher, attendant)
- Contact phone number
Pro tip: Book at least 48-72 hours in advance for the best availability. Recurring rides (like dialysis 3x/week) can be set up as standing orders.
What If You Don’t Qualify for Medicaid NEMT?
You still have excellent options for medical transportation:
Private NEMT Services
Companies like Duke Family Transportation serve anyone who needs medical rides — no Medicaid required. Benefits of private NEMT include:
- No eligibility requirements — Anyone can book
- Faster scheduling — Same-day and next-day available
- Flexible pickup times — No rigid windows
- Premium vehicles — Clean, comfortable, ADA-compliant
- Dedicated drivers — Build a relationship with your regular driver
Medicare Transportation
Original Medicare (Part A/B) has limited transportation coverage, but:
- Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans often include NEMT benefits
- Check with your specific Medicare Advantage plan for transportation coverage
Veterans Transportation
VA-enrolled veterans may qualify for:
- Beneficiary Travel Program (mileage reimbursement)
- Veterans Transportation Service (VTS)
- Disabled American Veterans (DAV) hospital shuttles
Community Programs
Georgia has several community transportation programs:
- Area Agencies on Aging — Senior transportation services
- United Way 211 — Call 211 for local transportation resources
- Faith-based organizations — Many churches offer volunteer driver programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use NEMT for appointments outside of Georgia?
Medicaid NEMT typically covers rides within Georgia. For out-of-state appointments, you’ll need prior authorization from Georgia Medicaid. Duke Family Transportation can provide private long-distance rides to any destination.
How often can I use Medicaid NEMT?
There’s no limit on the number of Medicaid NEMT rides — you’re entitled to transportation for every covered medical appointment.
Can a family member ride with me?
In most cases, one attendant or escort can accompany you on a Medicaid NEMT ride, especially if needed for translation, decision-making, or care assistance.
What if I need a wheelchair van?
Simply tell the scheduler you need a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. Duke Family Transportation’s entire fleet includes ADA-compliant vans with ramps and securement systems.
Get Started Today
Whether you qualify for Medicaid transportation or need private NEMT services, Duke Family Transportation is here for you.
- Phone: (470) 738-9609
- Book online: Schedule a ride
- Service area: Dallas, Atlanta, Marietta, and all of Georgia
- Hours: 24/7 availability
Need medical transportation in Georgia?
Duke Family Transportation provides reliable NEMT across Georgia. ADA-compliant vehicles, trained drivers, and door-to-door service.