HHSC now home to Medical Transportation Program

Medicaid provides health care for 2.6 million Texans, but a lack of transportation can make those services difficult to access. The Medical Transportation Program gives people on Medicaid ways they can get to visits with the doctor or dentist. On May 1, the Medical Transportation Program officially transferred to HHSC from the Texas Department of Transportation.

Services provided by the Medical Transportation Program are available to people covered by Medicaid who have no other means of transportation to get to the doctor, dentist or pharmacy. Transportation services include prearranged van pickup, bus passes or money for gasoline. In some cases the program may pay for overnight lodging and meals for clients younger than 21 and the person they are traveling with. These services are available in all areas of the state and are provided by a network of 62 contracting organizations and 11,000 authorized drivers.

To set up services under the Medical Transportation Program, the family or a representative (such as a case manager, social worker or staff from a medical provider) can call the toll-free number, 877-633-8747 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Be prepared to give the person’s Medicaid number and Social Security number; the medical provider's name, address and phone; the date and time of the health care appointment; and the health care service being provided.

Weekend transportation to and from bus stations and airports is available if these rides are scheduled in advance and are related to hospital admission or discharge.

For more information on the services available through the Medical Transportation Program, visit the HHSC website.