3 Major Trends Shaping the NEMT Industry

The 2024 Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Accreditation Commission (NEMTAC) Transform Conference, held in Glendale, Arizona, remains a pivotal event for the NEMT industry. As the leading annual gathering for professionals across the sector, it brings together healthcare providers, transportation organizations, technology innovators, and policymakers to share knowledge, foster partnerships, and discuss the latest trends impacting Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT).

This year, I once again had the privilege of attending the conference and came away with valuable insights into the current state and future of the industry. Here’s a deep dive into the key takeaways from the event, featuring the latest trends, innovations, and data-driven strategies shaping the future of NEMT.

Key Industry Trends from NEMTAC Transform

The NEMT industry is constantly evolving, making it crucial for transport providers of all sizes to keep an eye on the latest trends. This year, a number of sessions highlighted the need for increased efficiency, cost management, and the use of data to improve operations and patient outcomes.

The Rising Importance of Data in NEMT

Across multiple sessions, it became clear that data is becoming the backbone of decision-making for NEMT providers. Facilities, brokers, and health plans increasingly request data on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as on-time performance, customer satisfaction, and utilization rates. As a result of this demand, the cost of managing this data is rising as well, with investments needed in IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and personnel capable of analyzing and reporting this information.

The future of NEMT will rely on providers who can not only capture this data but use it to increase their operational efficiency. Regardless of your vehicle type, everyone will need to employ comprehensive data analytics to optimize scheduling, reduce costs, and meet the stringent demands of health plans.

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Managing Rising Costs in the NEMT Industry

Like many sectors, the NEMT industry is grappling with struggles of rising costs. Fuel prices, vehicle maintenance, insurance, and wages are putting pressure on providers to find new ways to operate efficiently. At NEMTAC Transform, multiple discussions centered on strategies to mitigate these challenges, including:

• Optimizing routing and scheduling through advanced software to reduce mileage, as well as fuel and labor costs.
• Investing in fuel-efficient vehicles, including electric vehicles (EVs), to combat rising fuel prices.
• Training and retaining drivers to improve safety, efficiency, and ultimately lower insurance costs.
• Leveraging innovative technology solutions to improve real-time tracking, customer communication, and the increasingly important need for increased data.
• Implementing flexible service models that vary offerings to optimize resource utilization to accommodate more rides, increasing patient satisfaction and potential revenue.

Driving Standardization through Networking and Collaboration

The industry standards established by NEMTAC are crucial to the success of any transportation provider.

From defining essential terminology to outlining the optimal service levels, these standards are essential for creating a unified, high-quality experience for patients. The NEMTAC Transform conference is a prime opportunity for healthcare providers, insurers, and community organizations to network in-person and drive meaningful conversations that play a crucial role in developing this standardization. Through collaboration and the sharing of best practices, providers can align on key issues like passenger verification and improving operational consistency, and even open the door to referrals and partnerships to increase revenue. It’s also the best place to get information on regulatory changes and emerging technology that can impact their operations.

One can’t-miss update from this year’s conference: NEMTAC published new industry standards and vocabulary on Levels of Service, NEMT Accreditation, Passenger Verification, and Transport Specialist Education.

The Future of NEMT: Predictions for 2025 and Beyond

Looking ahead, the NEMT industry is set to expand significantly, with projections estimating the market will grow to $10 billion by 2028.

Based on the conversations I had at the conference, here are some areas where I think early investment could reap huge dividends as the “silver tsunami” continues to drive an increase pressure to invest in patient transportation.

• Increased use of technology in the day-to-day: From real-time tracking to enhanced scheduling and data analytics, technology will play an even greater role in NEMT operations. Large scale integrations from CADs to EHRs will become table stakes, not only to speed patient throughput, but to ensure a reduction in human error. Investing in a platform that can support your operational, analytical and service needs early will allow your business to quickly scale to demand.
• Expansion of service offerings: Flexible service models that accommodate different patient needs will allow providers to serve more communities effectively. Centralized ride ordering increases visibility into market demand – allowing you to spend wisely and stay ahead of the competition as you expand your services. Multi-use equipment, like Broda chairs, will allow providers to expand service offerings without the overhead cost of a new vehicle.
• Sustainability initiatives: With the growing emphasis on environmental sustainability, I expect to see more NEMT providers adopting for EVs and other fuel-efficient vehicles to reduce their carbon footprint and mitigate the eternal challenge of fuel costs.

At Roundtrip, we’re excited about the future of NEMT and are committed to driving innovation in the space. Whether it’s through data-driven insights or industry partnerships, we’re ready to help hardworking transport providers across the US shape the next chapter of the NEMT industry.

Author Spot: Matt Koslosky has over 13 years of experience in the Non Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) space, including his time as Head of Transportation at Roundtrip, and has developed best practices in building and maintaining transportation networks. As Head of Transportation, Matt managed the overall network of transportation vendors that serve Roundtrip clients each and every day.  Matt also acts as an advisory board member for the Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Accreditation Commission (NEMTAC).