NEMT by state: brokers, rules, and how to become a provider

Five ways states run Medicaid rides

• One statewide broker

  The state hires a single broker that credentials providers, schedules trips, and pays claims. New York runs this way, and Colorado is moving to it through January 2027.

• Regional brokers

  The state splits into regions and hires one broker for each, so the broker you credential with depends on where you drive. Washington and Massachusetts work this way.

• Health plans each contract a broker

  Medicaid managed care plans arrange rides through their own transportation vendors, so a provider credentials with each broker separately. Texas, Florida, and California work this way.

• No broker

  The state enrolls transportation companies itself and pays them per trip, usually after the ride is approved. South Dakota works this way.

• County-run programs

  Counties run or contract the program under state rules, so requirements and contacts change at the county line. Pennsylvania is the largest example.