Transportation

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Emergency

You have a medical emergency when your life, body parts or bodily functions are at risk. This can be a damage or loss of function to you unless immediate care is received. In cases of emergency call 911. A taxi will not transport you to the emergency room.

Medically Necessary Non-Emergency Transportation (NEMT)

AHCCCS covers NEMT to or from the closest appropriate AHCCCS registered provider when a member is not able to find his/her own transportation.

For NEMT services on and after May 1, 2019, the following also apply:

For members living in Maricopa and Pima Counties:

  • NEMT services to and from a pharmacy are only covered for trips within 15 miles of the pick-up location, except for trips to (1) compounding or specialty pharmacies and (2) pharmacies in an MSIC or IHS/638 facilities. 
  • The 15 miles is calculated from the pick-up location to the drop-off location, for one direction.
  • Trips to compounding or specialty pharmacies over 15 miles may be covered if your health plan gives prior authorization for the transportation.
  • Trips to a pharmacy in an MSIC or IHS/638 facility, can go over 15 miles without getting a prior authorization from your health plan.
  • The 15-mile distance does not apply to members who do not live in Maricopa or Pima County.

If you need a ride to an appointment, ask a friend, family member or neighbor first. If you cannot get a ride, we can help you.

Call our Customer Care Center and select the transportation option. Call at least 72 hours before your scheduled visit. Same day transports may not always be available. Call in advance due to the number of transportation vehicles in all counties.

On weekends and holidays, you can call our Customer Care Center for taxi rides to urgent care centers when you are sick. Always remember to dial 911 if it is a medical emergency.

Wheelchair or Stretcher

If you need a wheelchair accessible vehicle, make sure to tell us. If you have stretcher needs, please be sure to specify that when making the request.

Children, Companions, or Escorts

B – UFC/ACC allows member and one additional passenger per transport. More than one more passenger is allowed if that person is a minor, if the person is under the care and supervision of the member or has a medical condition. If the member is a single caregiver with more than one minor child in his/her care, B – UFC/ACC allows other minor children to be transported. Not all taxis can accommodate more than 3 passengers. You will need to provide your own car seat for any child passengers.

Scheduling Transportation

If you call to get a ride to a medical appointment, please be ready to tell the representative the following:

  • Your name, AHCCCS ID number, date of birth, address, phone number (for verification purposes)
  • The date, time, and address of your medical visit
  • If you need a ride one way or a round trip
  • Your travel needs (wheelchair, stretcher, or other)
  • Any special needs (oxygen, IVs, someone who needs to travel with you, an extra-wide or electric wheelchair, a high-top vehicle, etc.)
  • Children under the age of 5 require a car seat

Canceling Rides to Your Appointments

If you cancel your doctor or dentist visit, you must also call our B – UFC/ACC Customer Care Center to cancel your ride to your visit.