How Do I Schedule Non-Emergency Medical Transportation in Tampa Bay?

If you've never scheduled non-emergency medical transportation before, the process can feel a little unclear - especially when insurance is involved. The good news is that it's more straightforward than it looks once you understand the steps.

This guide walks you through exactly how to schedule NEMT in the Tampa Bay area, whether you're using an insurance benefit or booking privately.

Step 1: Determine How Your Trip Will Be Paid For

Before you do anything else, figure out whether your trip may be covered by insurance or whether you'll be booking as a private-pay client.

Insurance-covered: If you have Medicaid, a Medicare Advantage plan, or a commercial insurance plan that includes transportation benefits, your trip may be covered. You'll need to go through your insurer and their assigned transportation broker.

Private pay: If your insurance doesn't include transportation benefits, or if you prefer to book directly, you can contact Skyline Transport to schedule your trip without going through a broker.

Step 2: Check Your Insurance Benefits

If you think your insurance may cover your trip, call the member services number on the back of your insurance card. Ask specifically:

•        Does my plan include non-emergency medical transportation benefits?

•        What type of trips are covered (medical appointments, dialysis, therapy, etc.)?

•        How much notice is required to schedule?

•        Who is the transportation broker assigned to my plan?

Common brokers in Florida include Alivi Health, MTM (Medical Transportation Management), Modivcare, and SafeRide Health. Skyline Transport is in-network with Alivi Health.

Step 3: Contact Your Transportation Broker

Once you've confirmed your benefit and identified your broker, contact them to schedule your trip.

Have the following information ready:

•        Your full name and insurance member ID

•        Pickup address (including apartment number, building name, or access instructions)

•        Destination address (facility name and full address)

•        Appointment date and time

•        Your mobility needs - wheelchair, stretcher, ambulatory, stair chair, etc.

•        Whether you need a round trip or one-way

•        Any special requirements such as bariatric needs or companion travel

If you're using Alivi Health and want Skyline Transport as your provider, request NDI Health Services by name when scheduling.

Step 4: For Private-Pay Scheduling, Contact Skyline Transport Directly

If you're booking without insurance, contact Skyline Transport directly:

•        Call (813) 330-3200 to speak with our scheduling team

•        Visit www.skylinetransportfl.com for more information

•        Have your trip details ready: pickup address, destination, date, time, and mobility needs

Private-pay scheduling gives you direct access to our team and the flexibility to arrange your trip on your timeline.

How Much Advance Notice Is Needed?

For the best experience and to ensure the right vehicle and crew are available for your trip:

•        Standard trips: Schedule at least 24-48 hours in advance

•        Stretcher or specialty trips: Schedule 48-72 hours in advance when possible

•        Recurring trips (such as dialysis): Standing trip arrangements can be set up to simplify ongoing scheduling

Same-day or short-notice trips may be available depending on scheduling, but advance booking is strongly recommended.

Tips for a Smooth Scheduling Experience

•        Have all your trip details ready before you call - it speeds up the process significantly

•        For insurance trips, know your member ID and the broker's contact number before calling

•        Schedule your return trip at the same time as your outbound trip

•        Give the provider a cell phone number the driver can reach on the day of your trip

•        For procedures with unpredictable discharge times, provide the facility's number so the driver can coordinate

NEMT Scheduling for Recurring Appointments

If you have regular appointments - such as dialysis three times per week, weekly chemotherapy, or recurring therapy sessions - ask about standing trip arrangements when you schedule. Many NEMT providers, including Skyline Transport, can set up recurring trips so you don't need to schedule each one individually.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I schedule online?

Contact Skyline Transport at (813) 330-3200 or through our website at www.skylinetransportfl.com for current scheduling options.

What if I'm not sure what type of transport I need?

Tell us about the patient's mobility level and any medical equipment they use when you call. We can help determine the right service type.

Ready to schedule? Skyline Transport serves Tampa Bay including Hillsborough and South Pinellas County. Call (813) 330-3200 or (800) 515-8028 or visit www.skylinetransportfl.com.