1. Program Definition and Services 

Non-Medical Transportation (NMT) Services in New York provide short-term and ongoing transit support to children and adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities. The program aims to help maintain individuals with disabilities in the community, averting the need for long-term institutional services and supports. Services include:

• In-Home/Community Non-Medical Transportation: Individual transit support from the individual/family home to community resources, employment sites, and social activities.
• Residential Non-Medical Transportation Tracking: Supervision, specialized fleet scheduling, and coordinated transit tracking originating from licensed residential or community-based settings.

2. Regulations 

The program is governed by the following regulations: 

• New York Codes, Rules and Regulations, Title 14, Part 635 (Rule 635)
• New York Codes, Rules and Regulations, Title 14, Part 686 (Rule 686)
• Mental Hygiene Law (MHL Articles 16 & 33)
• Social Services Law (Protection of People with Special Needs)
• Child Protective Services Act (State Central Register Reporting)

3. Licensing or Certification 

Providers must be certified by the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) or partner state agencies and strictly follow all Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) transport requirements.

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) is responsible for reviewing applications and certifying non-medical transportation services providers.

5. Application Process 

The application process is conducted through the electronic New York Medicaid Provider Enrollment Portal (eMedNY). Providers must submit specialized provider enrollment forms online to initiate the application process.

6. Required Documentation 

While specific documentation requirements vary based on the target waiver, providers typically need to submit: 

• Proof of compliance with state safety, vehicle inspection, and operational rules 
• Agency policies and procedures (including fleet maintenance and passenger logs) 
• Staff qualifications, driver abstracts, and training records
• Proof of commercial vehicle liability, general liability, and professional liability insurance

7. Timeline for Approval 

The exact timeline for approval fluctuates based on agency capacity. Providers should contact their regional office for detailed information on current processing timeframes.

8. Pre-Application Process 

Prospective providers must complete specific foundation tasks before applying. They must establish their business entity with the New York Department of State and secure necessary federal identification numbers (EIN and NPI Type 2).

9. Pre-Application Training 

The state hosts mandatory administrative, vehicle safety, and compliance training sessions online. Access details are sent to qualified applicants once preliminary paperwork is reviewed.

10. Additional Notes 

• Providers must ensure that intensive transportation fleets and vehicles meet all state accessibility (ADA) and environmental safety guidelines 
• In-Home Non-Medical Transportation must be provided directly by the certified agency's employed personnel and approved drivers 
• All direct care staff and drivers must conduct mandatory background clearances, driver history reviews, and fingerprinting screenings
• Providers must maintain detailed records of face-to-face services, trip routes, and mileage tracking for Medicaid documentation and billing

Why Choose Waiver Consulting Group? 

Starting or expanding your Medicaid waiver-funded agency can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. At Waiver Consulting Group, we simplify the process by guiding you through licensing, compliance, provider enrollment, policies & procedures, and regulatory approvals in any state. 

With proven expertise, a structured process, and ongoing support, we take the guesswork out of launching your healthcare business. Whether you're a first-time entrepreneur or an established provider looking to expand, our team ensures you stay compliant, competitive, and fully operational.

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