Transportation Assistance Services in Michigan are designed to support individuals with disabilities, older adults, and those with chronic conditions by providing reliable and safe transportation to medical appointments, community activities, and essential services. These services are authorized under the Michigan Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Medicaid Waivers and must follow protocols set by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).

1. GOVERNING AGENCIES

Agency: Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS)
Role: Oversees provider enrollment, service authorization, and Medicaid compliance

Agency: Michigan Medicaid Agency
Role: Handles Medicaid provider enrollment and reimbursement for Transportation Assistance Services

Agency: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
Role: Provides federal oversight and ensures compliance with HCBS waiver rules

2. SERVICE OVERVIEW

Transportation Assistance Services provide individuals with safe, reliable transportation to and from medical appointments, social services, community activities, and other essential destinations as outlined in their care plan.

Approved providers may deliver:

• Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT)
• Transportation to community activities and essential services
• Vehicle modification or adaptation for accessibility
• Escort or companion services when needed
• Documentation of trips and client satisfaction reports

3. LICENSING & PROVIDER APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS

Prerequisites:

• Register business with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA)
• Obtain EIN from the IRS and NPI (Type 2)
• Maintain a physical office or dispatch center in Michigan
• Obtain necessary vehicle registration, insurance, and licensing for passenger transport
• Hire qualified drivers with clean driving records and proper training
• Establish vehicle maintenance and safety protocols

4. PROVIDER ENROLLMENT PROCESS

Initial Interest and Application:

• Request the Transportation Assistance Provider Application Packet from MDHHS
• Submit a business and service plan detailing transportation logistics, safety protocols, and staff qualifications
• Include policies for vehicle maintenance, driver training, and client safety

Background & Credentialing:

• Background checks for drivers and staff involved in direct client interaction
• Verification of valid driver's licenses and clean driving records
• Proof of driver training in passenger assistance and emergency protocols

Program Readiness Review:

• Demonstrate vehicle safety inspection and maintenance logs
• Establish protocols for client pick-up, drop-off, and ride documentation

5. REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

• Articles of Incorporation or LLC Certificate
• IRS EIN Letter
• NPI confirmation
• Lease or proof of dispatch location in Michigan

MDHHS-Compliant Policy & Procedure Manual including:

• Driver safety and training protocols
• Trip scheduling, tracking, and reporting procedures
• Emergency response and client safety standards
• Financial tracking and mileage logs

6. PROVIDER ENROLLMENT PROCESS

Role: Transportation Coordinator
Requirements: Experience in logistics, client coordination, and scheduling

Role: Driver
Requirements: Valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and training in passenger assistance

All staff must complete:

• MDHHS orientation and HCBS Waiver training
• Annual safety, defensive driving, and client care training
• Confidentiality, ethics, and client rights training

7. MEDICAID WAIVER SERVICES

Michigan Medicaid Waivers that authorize Transportation Assistance Services include:

• MI Choice Waiver
• Habilitation Supports Waiver
• Children’s Waiver Program

Approved providers may deliver:

• Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT)
• Community transportation
• Wheelchair-accessible and assisted rides

8. TIMELINE TO LAUNCH

Phase: Business Formation
Timeline: 0–1 week

Phase: MDHHS Application Review
Timeline: 60–90 days

Phase: Driver Hiring and Training
Timeline: 30–60 days

Phase: Medicaid Enrollment
Timeline: 60–90 days

​

9. CONTACT INFORMATION

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) – Division of Long-Term Care Services
Email: ltcprovider@michigan.gov
Phone: (517) 335-1980
Website: MDHHS Website

Michigan Medicaid Agency – Waiver Services
Website: Michigan Medicaid

10. SCOPE OF WORK

• Business formation (LLC, EIN, NPI)
• MDHHS provider application and compliance guidance
• Policy & Procedure Manual development
• Driver training and vehicle safety protocols
• Medicaid enrollment and billing setup
• Website, domain, and email setup
• Client admission packet
• Marketing and advertising materials
• Operational training
• Compliance and regulatory support
• Quality assurance programs