If you don't have a way to get to your doctor, you don't have to miss your appointment. Texas Medicaid offers free rides to and from medical care for people who qualify — it's called non-emergency medical transportation, or NEMT. This guide explains who pays and how to book a ride, in plain language.
Texas Health Help is a community nonprofit. We don't provide the rides, but we share clear, trustworthy information and help families across rural and underserved Texas connect to the right transportation programs — for free.
What is NEMT?
Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) is a free ride to medical care for people who have no other way to get there. It covers non-emergency visits — checkups, dialysis, therapy, dental, vision, and picking up prescriptions. For a true emergency, always call 911 instead.
Rides can include car services, vans, wheelchair-accessible vehicles, public transit passes, and in some cases mileage reimbursement if a friend or family member drives you.
Who Pays for NEMT in Texas?
For people on Medicaid, Texas Medicaid pays for NEMT — there is no cost to you for covered rides to covered appointments. It's delivered two ways:
- Through your Medicaid managed care plan (most members) — call the transportation number on the back of your member ID card.
- Through the Medical Transportation Program (MTP) for traditional, fee-for-service Medicaid.
Who May Qualify?
You may qualify for free medical rides if you are:
- Enrolled in Texas Medicaid and have no other way to get to your appointment
- A parent who needs a ride for your child's covered medical visit
- A senior or person with a disability needing accessible transportation
- Living in a rural area far from your clinic or hospital
- Going to dialysis, therapy, or regular treatments
Not on Medicaid? You may still find rides through 2-1-1, local agencies, and community groups — see the resources below.
How to Book a Ride (Step by Step)
- 1
Find the right phone number
If you have a Medicaid managed care plan, use the transportation number on the back of your member ID card. For traditional Medicaid, call the Medical Transportation Program (MTP).
- 2
Call ahead — at least two business days
Booking early helps make sure a ride is available. For ongoing visits like dialysis, ask about setting up recurring rides.
- 3
Have your details ready
Know your Medicaid ID, the appointment date and time, the clinic's name and address, and whether you need a wheelchair-accessible vehicle.
- 4
Confirm pickup details
Ask when and where you'll be picked up, and the number to call if plans change. Be ready a little early on the day of your ride.
- 5
Get help if you're stuck
If you can't reach your plan or aren't sure where to start, our navigators can help you find a ride — free and confidential.
Tips for a Smooth Ride
- Book as early as you can — don't wait until the day before.
- Keep your member ID card handy when you call.
- Set up recurring rides for regular treatments.
- Tell them if you use a wheelchair or need extra help.
- Ask about rides to the pharmacy after your visit.
- Save the transportation number in your phone.
What You'll Need When You Call
- Your Medicaid ID number
- The appointment date and time
- The clinic or hospital name and address
- Your home pickup address
- Any accessibility needs (wheelchair, oxygen, etc.)
- A phone number where they can reach you
Helpful Texas Resources
Texas Medical Transportation Program
Official state info on free NEMT rides for Medicaid members, including how to book.
2-1-1 Texas
Free, statewide helpline. Dial 2-1-1 to find rides, including options if you're not on Medicaid.
Texas Area Agencies on Aging
Transportation and support for older Texans and caregivers in your region.
Want a broader overview of getting around? See our Transportation Help guide.
Need help booking a medical ride?
You don't have to figure this out alone. Our community navigators help Texas families find and book free rides to medical care — at no cost and in plain language.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT)?+
NEMT is a free ride to and from medical appointments for people who have no other way to get there. It's for non-emergency care — like checkups, dialysis, therapy, or picking up prescriptions — not for emergencies, where you should call 911.
Who pays for non-emergency medical transportation in Texas?+
For people on Medicaid, Texas Medicaid pays for NEMT through the Medical Transportation Program (MTP) or through your Medicaid managed care plan. There is no cost to you for covered rides to covered appointments.
Who qualifies for free medical rides in Texas?+
If you have Texas Medicaid (including the Children's Health Insurance Program in some cases) and have no other transportation, you generally qualify for free NEMT to covered medical appointments. Seniors and people with disabilities may also find rides through local and 2-1-1 programs.
How do I book a ride?+
If you have a Medicaid managed care plan, call the transportation number on the back of your member ID card. If you have traditional Medicaid, call the Medical Transportation Program. Try to book at least two business days before your appointment.
How far in advance should I schedule?+
Plan ahead — most programs ask you to book at least two business days before your appointment. For standing appointments like dialysis, you can often set up regular recurring rides.
What kinds of trips are covered?+
Covered trips include doctor visits, dental and vision appointments, dialysis, therapy, mental health visits, and trips to pick up prescriptions or medical equipment — as long as the service is covered by Medicaid.
What if I'm not on Medicaid?+
If you don't have Medicaid, you may still find rides through 2-1-1 Texas, local Area Agencies on Aging, faith and community groups, or transit programs. Our navigators can help you find an option near you for free.
Does Texas Health Help provide the rides?+
No. We are a community nonprofit. We help you understand your options and connect to the right transportation program. The rides are provided by Medicaid plans and local programs.
Disclaimer: Texas Health Help (Community Health Access Hub Texas) is a community nonprofit, not a government agency. We do not provide transportation or approve benefits. Rides are arranged by Medicaid plans and program administrators. This page is general educational information and is not legal, medical, or financial advice. For emergencies, call 911.