Understanding Microtransit: A Modern Mobility Solution

Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) is a vital service that helps millions of people access their healthcare appointments yearly. 

However, traditional NEMT models often face high costs, low efficiency, limited coverage, and poor customer satisfaction.  

How can NEMT providers overcome these obstacles and deliver better transportation solutions for their members? 

One answer may be microtransit, a tech-enabled shared transportation model that blends fixed-route transit and ride-hailing technology.  

Microtransit offers highly flexible routing and scheduling of minibus vehicles shared with other passengers based on real-time demand and supply.  

Microtransit can provide a more convenient, reliable, and affordable way for NEMT members to reach their care destinations while reducing traffic congestion and environmental impact. 

What are the benefits of microtransit for NEMT providers? 

Microtransit can help NEMT providers improve their service quality, operational efficiency, and financial sustainability in several ways: 

Enhanced Member Experience 

Microtransit can provide users with more accessible transportation options through mobile apps, web portals, or phone calls. 

Members can book and track their rides on-demand or in advance and choose the service level and vehicle type that suits their needs and preferences.  

Microtransit can also reduce wait times, travel times, and missed appointments while increasing safety and comfort for members. 

Optimized Network Performance 

Microtransit can leverage advanced technology and data analytics to dynamically match members with the most suitable vehicles and drivers, adjusting real-time routes and schedules according to traffic conditions and member feedback.

Microtransit can also utilize a diverse and flexible network of transportation providers from local, regional, and national partners to ensure adequate supply and coverage for any demand and situation. 

Reduced Operational Costs 

Microtransit can lower the cost per ride and member by increasing vehicle utilization and occupancy, reducing the need for dedicated fleets and drivers.  

Microtransit can also save on fuel, maintenance, and insurance expenses by using more efficient and eco-friendly vehicles, like electric or hybrid models.  

It can also generate additional revenue streams by serving other markets and segments, such as commuters, students, seniors, or tourists. 

Increased Regulatory Compliance 

Microtransit can assist NEMT providers in meeting and exceeding their clients’ regulatory standards and expectations set by health plans, government agencies, or employers. 

It can provide real-time visibility and accountability for every ride, plus detailed and accurate reporting and documentation for every transaction.  

Microtransit can also ensure that members receive appropriate care and assistance and protect their privacy and security. 

How can NEMT providers implement microtransit in their operations? 

Microtransit is not a one-size-fits-all solution but rather a customizable and adaptable platform that can fit the different needs and goals of NEMT providers.  

Depending on their current situation and future vision, NEMT providers can choose from various options and strategies to implement micro transit in their operations, such as: 

Partnering With a Micro-Transit Provider 

NEMT providers can outsource some or all their transportation services to a specialized microtransit provider.  

These providers can offer a turnkey or custom program that includes the technology, network, and management of microtransit, as well as the integration and coordination with the existing NEMT system.  

This option can allow NEMT providers to leverage the expertise and experience of microtransit providers and focus on their core competencies and value propositions. 

Building Their Own Microtransit Platform 

NEMT providers can develop and operate their microtransit platform using their own or third-party technology, vehicles, and drivers.  

This option can give NEMT providers more control and ownership over their transportation services and more flexibility and innovation in their service delivery. However, this option can also require more investment, risk, and technical and operational capabilities from NEMT providers. 

Hybridizing Their Transportation Model 

NEMT providers can integrate microtransit with other modes and models, such as fixed routes, paratransit, ride-hailing, or public transit.  

This option can enable NEMT providers to offer their members a more comprehensive and diverse transportation portfolio and optimize resource allocation and utilization.  

It can also create increased collaboration among different transportation stakeholders and sectors. 

Potential for Future NEMT Enhancement 

Microtransit is a modern mobility solution that can transform how NEMT providers deliver transportation services to their members.  

By adopting microtransit and implementing NEMT software like Tobi, NEMT providers can enhance their member experience, optimize network performance, reduce operational costs, and increase regulatory compliance. It can also help NEMT providers achieve their social and environmental goals, such as improving access to care, reducing health disparities, and promoting sustainability.  

Microtransit is not a silver bullet but a powerful tool to help NEMT providers create more value and impact for their members, clients, and communities. 

Are you curious to see how Tobi can help you run your NEMT operations more efficiently? Request a demo for a free 30-day trial and experience how Tobi makes your business better at every turn.