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CONTACT: Beth Kaplan, (608)
266-1683
TRANSPORTATION SERVICE FOR MEDICAID ENROLLEES SURPASSES 857,000 RIDES IN
FIRST SIX MONTHS
MADISON—The state’s non-emergency medical transportation manager,
LogistiCare, has received more than 380,000 calls from Medicaid enrollees
and coordinated more than 857,000 trips to physician and dental visits,
mental health outpatient therapy appointments, physical, occupational or
speech therapy, and hospital stays, according to Department of Health
Services (DHS) officials. More than 99.6 percent of the rides provided
were complaint free.
“During the first six months, our Medicaid enrollees are receiving
quality, consistent services, whether they are in urban or rural areas in
the state,” said Deputy Secretary Kitty Rhoades. “Having one number to
call and being able to speak to someone quickly to reserve a ride really
helps get individuals to the care they need.”
Under federal rules, Medicaid members must have access to
transportation to go to Medicaid covered services and return home. Prior
to the state using a transportation management service, ride service
management varied greatly by county and among tribes, resulting in service
and cost inefficiencies.
The Department pursued a state contract for a transportation manager to
better coordinate these services and arrange for the most appropriate
means of transportation for each member. These can include local
providers, common carriers such as buses, or rides provided by family and
friends. Medical ride management in six southeast Wisconsin counties
continues to be coordinated by the HMOs that serve Medicaid members in
this part of the state.
LogistiCare has provided 91 new jobs at its Wisconsin call center,
including Spanish and Hmong speakers. A Medicaid transportation advisory
council that includes members from around the state provides input and
suggestions to LogistiCare and the Department on enhancements to ride
services.
There are currently 137 transportation providers included in
LogistiCare’s provider network to serve eligible Medicaid enrollees
statewide. New transportation providers are continuously added to the
network by LogistiCare to meet the increased demand for transportation
services and to ensure quality service across the board. Providers must
meet specific vehicle and driver safety standards and training
requirements.
LogistiCare also collects data that helps detect potential provider and
member fraud. Action can be taken to remove providers from the
transportation network who commit fraud and to investigate Medicaid
enrollee fraud, through the state Office of the Inspector General.
To reserve rides for medical appointments or to provide feedback about
the services provided, Medicaid enrollees should call 1-866-907-1493.
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Last Revised: January 31, 2012
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