Is It Profitable to Offer 24-hour Service in the NEMT Industry?

There is no doubt that the non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) industry has seen a lot of growth in recent years. And the demand for 24/7 service is higher than ever before. However, would expanding their timelines really be profitable for NEMT companies? 

The answer is not as simple as a yes or no. The NEMT industry is quite complex, with many factors to consider before making such a big decision. 

Let’s explore the pros and cons of working 24/7 in the NEMT industry and what providers can do to make the most of this demand and generate more revenue. 

Demand for 24/7 Service is High in NEMT

Working 24/7 in the NEMT industry can be highly profitable, but it comes with a few caveats. Providers must find a way to balance these limitations so they can provide quality service while giving their staff the work-life balance they need.

First, you must have a clear understanding of your target market and its needs. Consider the kind of passengers or patients who might need 24/7 service so you can see whether the demand is worth expanding your operating hours. 

Second, you must have the infrastructure in place to support 24/7 operations. This includes having enough drivers, vehicles, and support staff to meet the demands of your target market. 

The proper resources, such as the right NEMT software like ISI Technology, will be crucial to the future of your company. Such software will help you automate or handle after-hours calls and dispatch. And this robust system is vital for tracking all vehicles and drivers 24/7.

Robust NEMT management software will help your transport business decrease no-shows, manage schedules, and build on-time performance for staff, especially if you’re offering 24/7 services. 

Finally, you must be prepared for the increased costs associated with 24/7 transport operations. These costs can include additional fuel, vehicle maintenance, and expanded insurance for your business, employees, and equipment. Some states mandate additional insurance for 24/7 services. 

What is the best way to determine if your business can make a 24-hour transport service work? Ask yourself these questions and whether your staff and resources can make the transition.

What are the Average Trips/Miles per 8-Hour Work Day for an NEMT Service?

There is no definitive answer to this question as it can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as the rates a transport company offers, the type of NEMT service being provided, the geographical area, and the demand for after-hours assistance. However, we can provide some general estimates based on available data.

On average, NEMT providers make between three and five trips within an 8-hour work day. This can translate to anywhere from 20 to 50 miles being driven per day. Of course, these numbers differ depending on the demand for services, the coverage area, nearby healthcare facilities, and many more. However, this can give you a general idea of the average number of trips and miles driven in a typical NEMT workday.

What are the Average Trips/Miles for a 24-Hour Work Day in NEMT?

Given the information above, it’s safe to say that the average number of trips for NEMT providers with a 24/7 service is between 8 and 12, with the average number of miles driven between 80 and 120.

However, the number of trips and miles vary widely depending on the type of NEMT service being provided. For example, transport provided by ambulance service companies tends to have higher average trips and miles than those offered by human service agencies. 

In addition, the time of day and day of the week can also affect the number of trips and miles. For example, NEMT services provided during holidays or weekends tend to have higher average trips and miles.

Is 24/7 Service Vital in the NEMT Industry?

Providing round-the-clock service is essential to meeting the needs of many NEMT clients and patients. Many transport providers and companies offer 24/7 transportation services for those who require medical care but are unable to transport themselves. This includes senior adults, people with disabilities, and those who do not have access to reliable 24-hour transportation.

Some passengers require services at any time of day or night. Transport availability is crucial because many medical check-ups and procedures are scheduled outside regular business hours. Only NEMT providers with 24-hour services can provide what they need to reach their healthcare appointments on time.

Providing 24/7 service is also a way for NEMT companies to show their commitment to their clients. The availability of transport in rural locations or for passengers who require special medical equipment makes NEMT transport providers a vital part of the healthcare system in many areas. 

NEMT Providers Provide a Safe Alternative to Regular Medical Emergency Transport

In recent years, passengers have begun to use NEMT providers as an alternative to traditional medical emergency transport. NEMT providers are certified to provide safe and reliable services for passengers with medical conditions that make it difficult or impossible to use regular transportation.

NEMT companies have a wide range of experience and training, and they can provide transport for people of all ages and with all types of medical conditions. They are familiar with the medical equipment that may be needed during transport. They can provide the necessary support and care to ensure the patient is safe and comfortable throughout the trip.

Some providers already offer much-needed 24-hour medical transportation for patients, and many clients are taking them up on their offer. 

Here are some of the reasons why:

• Drivers and staff are required to have a higher level of training and certification to provide a higher level of care to their patients. They are also trained to deal with each patient’s specific circumstances, so all of their major medical concerns are considered during transport.
• 24/7 NEMT companies provide various transport options to provide services to passengers in a wide range of circumstances. 
• NEMT providers are required to have a higher level of liability insurance than other transport companies. This protects the NEMT provider and the patient in the event of an accident.
• NEMT companies offer various services, including transportation to and from medical appointments, school or work, and even social activities. They also provide transportation for a client’s physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other non-emergency medical appointments.

Can NEMT Providers Earn More When Offering 24/7 Service?

NEMT providers that offer 24/7 service can earn more money because they are able to provide a higher quality of service and meet the needs of their customers more effectively.

They are also more likely to have repeat customers—people who use NEMT services often need them on a regular basis. Providing 24/7 services builds a loyal customer base that will always turn to them for all of their transport needs.

Additionally, providers can charge more when passengers choose schedules such as holidays, weekends, and beyond regular working hours. 

Overall, offering 24/7 service is an excellent way for NEMT providers to earn more money and build a loyal customer base for long-term success and scaling.

Final Thoughts

The transport industry is exploring the many ways they can improve the quality of services that patients receive. But the most basic seems to be to offer them transport options that make going to medical appointments much less stressful. 

If you are an NEMT provider, you can be part of the industry expansion and offer 24-hour services to your patients and clients. Contact ISI Technology to make the change easy and more profitable for you!