Guide for Seniors: Understanding MLTC Transportation Changes in New York State

March 14, 2024   236

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Starting March 1, 2024, Medical Answering Services (MAS) is managing transportation for MLTC members in MAP and Partial Capitation Plans in New York. Members can schedule new trips or confirm previously scheduled trips by calling MAS. This change aims to streamline transportation services for Medicaid members, ensuring they can get to and from medical appointments without cost to them. The Medicaid Transportation program arranges non-emergency transportation, such as pre-scheduled trips to primary care and the dentist, and emphasizes arranging trips at the most medically appropriate, cost-effective level of service

In New York State, elderly individuals who are eligible for the Managed Long Term Care Plan (MLTCP) and the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) can receive non-emergency transportation services, among other supports. Here’s a breakdown of who can avail of these services through these programs:

Managed Long Term Care Plan (MLTCP)

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must be at least 21 years old.
• Must reside within New York State.
• Must require more than 120 days of community-based long-term care services.
• Must be Medicaid eligible.

Services Included:

• Home care, personal care, delivered meals, housekeeping, and notably, non-emergency transportation to medical appointments.
• Other services such as social & adult day care, dentistry, podiatry, therapies (occupational, physical, speech), optometry/eyeglasses, audiology/hearing aids, and personal emergency response systems (PERS)​​.

Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP)

Eligibility for Transportation Services:

• CDPAP allows for personal assistants to provide transportation for standard medical appointments as part of their care duties.
• This service is intended for chronically ill or physically disabled individuals who need help with activities of daily living (ADLs) or skilled nursing services.
• Recipients must be capable and willing to manage the services they receive, or have a legal guardian or designated adult who can make informed choices on their behalf.

1. Key Change:

• New Management: Medical Answering Services (MAS) is now the go-to service for arranging non-emergency medical transportation for MLTC members, including those in MAP and Partial Capitation Plans.

2. Using the Service:

• Scheduling Rides: Whether you need to book a new trip or confirm an existing one to a medical appointment, MAS is here to assist.
• Service Coverage: This includes rides to non-emergency appointments like your family doctor or dental care, ensuring you get there without any cost to you.

3. Action Steps for Seniors:

• Contacting MAS: Reach out to MAS with your appointment details well in advance. A good rule of thumb is to call at least three days before your appointment.
• Information to Provide: Have your Medicaid details and appointment information ready when you call to facilitate a smooth booking process.

4. MAS Contact Information:

• https://www.medanswering.com/login.taf

5. Key Points to Remember:

• The aim of this change is to make accessing medical transportation easier for you, ensuring you don't miss out on important non-emergency medical care.
• Planning ahead and keeping your Medicaid information at hand when booking will help make the process more efficient.

Important Notice:

• Keep this guide handy, and ensure you reach out to MAS for your transportation needs. This service is designed with your convenience and health in mind.

This simplified guide should help you understand and adapt to the new transportation management by MAS in New York State. For any questions or to book a ride, don’t hesitate to contact MAS directly. Stay healthy and safe on your journeys to medical appointments!