ESTABLISHING NEMT INDUSTRY STANDARDS
NEMTAC® is committed to promoting safe, reliable, and comprehensive Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) services as an Accredited Standards Developer through the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Our standards encompass a wide range of areas, including exceptional customer care, safe vehicle operations, life safety, ethical business practices, and the broader ecosystem that supports access to care. This extends to air and ground transportation, lodging, meal and mileage reimbursement, technology infrastructure, EDI processes, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance. By establishing industry-wide best practices, we strive to enhance the safety, efficiency, and quality of NEMT for all stakeholders—transportation providers, brokers, healthcare facilities, payers, and most importantly, the passengers who rely on these critical services.
ANSI ACCREDITATION
Why ANSI Accreditation Matters for NEMT
NEMTAC pursued ANSI accreditation to ensure that Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) standards are developed through a rigorous, consensus-driven process that reflects the needs of all industry stakeholders. Establishing ANSI-certified standards in NEMT is critical for:
• Legitimizing industry best practices—ANSI accreditation ensures that NEMTAC’s standards meet the highest level of credibility, consistency, and industry acceptance.
• Ensuring nationwide standardization—With significant variation in NEMT regulations across states and programs, ANSI standards provide a unified framework that promotes safety, efficiency, and compliance.
• Building trust and accountability—ANSI-certified standards create a transparent and structured approach for providers, brokers, payers, and regulators to align expectations and improve service quality.
• Enhancing patient safety and access to care—By implementing widely recognized and independently validated standards, the industry can ensure greater reliability, safety, and quality of service for those who depend on NEMT.
With ANSI accreditation, NEMTAC is leading the charge in professionalizing NEMT, ensuring consistent, high-quality transportation services across the industry while reinforcing the importance of safety, ethics, and operational excellence.
NEMTAC pursued ANSI accreditation to ensure that Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) standards are developed through a rigorous, consensus-driven process that reflects the needs of all industry stakeholders. Establishing ANSI-certified standards in NEMT is critical for:
• Legitimizing industry best practices—ANSI accreditation ensures that NEMTAC’s standards meet the highest level of credibility, consistency, and industry acceptance.
• Ensuring nationwide standardization—With significant variation in NEMT regulations across states and programs, ANSI standards provide a unified framework that promotes safety, efficiency, and compliance.
• Building trust and accountability—ANSI-certified standards create a transparent and structured approach for providers, brokers, payers, and regulators to align expectations and improve service quality.
• Enhancing patient safety and access to care—By implementing widely recognized and independently validated standards, the industry can ensure greater reliability, safety, and quality of service for those who depend on NEMT.
With ANSI accreditation, NEMTAC is leading the charge in professionalizing NEMT, ensuring consistent, high-quality transportation services across the industry while reinforcing the importance of safety, ethics, and operational excellence.
CALL TO ACTION
Whenever a new NEMT standards project is initiated, NEMTAC® forms a Standards Development Committee to review, approve, and refine industry best practices. These standards are developed not only to elevate safety, efficiency, and service quality within NEMT but also to align with universally recognized best practices across other industries.
We encourage broad participation from both within the NEMT industry and beyond, ensuring that standards are developed with a diverse, multidisciplinary perspective that promotes universal recognition and adoption.
You may apply to be part of the Standards Development Committee (Certification & Standards Advisory Committee). Participation is open to:
• NEMT service users and stakeholders (patients, caregivers, healthcare organizations, brokers, payers)
• Vendors and suppliers (transportation providers, medical equipment manufacturers, vehicle suppliers, software/technology firms)
• Regulatory and oversight bodies (government agencies, compliance specialists, industry consultants)
• Experts from adjacent industries (logistics, supply chain, aviation, disability rights, cybersecurity, and public safety)
• Academia and research institutions focused on transportation, healthcare access, and safety
Beyond committee participation, practical adoption of ANSI-accredited NEMT standards is essential. By integrating these standards into daily operations, technology platforms, and regulatory frameworks, organizations can help establish a universal benchmark for quality and compliance—one that aligns NEMT with broader healthcare, transportation, and public safety best practices.
We encourage broad participation from both within the NEMT industry and beyond, ensuring that standards are developed with a diverse, multidisciplinary perspective that promotes universal recognition and adoption.
You may apply to be part of the Standards Development Committee (Certification & Standards Advisory Committee). Participation is open to:
• NEMT service users and stakeholders (patients, caregivers, healthcare organizations, brokers, payers)
• Vendors and suppliers (transportation providers, medical equipment manufacturers, vehicle suppliers, software/technology firms)
• Regulatory and oversight bodies (government agencies, compliance specialists, industry consultants)
• Experts from adjacent industries (logistics, supply chain, aviation, disability rights, cybersecurity, and public safety)
• Academia and research institutions focused on transportation, healthcare access, and safety
Beyond committee participation, practical adoption of ANSI-accredited NEMT standards is essential. By integrating these standards into daily operations, technology platforms, and regulatory frameworks, organizations can help establish a universal benchmark for quality and compliance—one that aligns NEMT with broader healthcare, transportation, and public safety best practices.
Whenever a new NEMT standards project is initiated, NEMTAC® forms a Standards Development Committee to review, approve, and refine industry best practices. These standards are developed not only to elevate safety, efficiency, and service quality within NEMT but also to align with universally recognized best practices across other industries.
We encourage broad participation from both within the NEMT industry and beyond, ensuring that standards are developed with a diverse, multidisciplinary perspective that promotes universal recognition and adoption.
You may apply to be part of the Standards Development Committee (Certification & Standards Advisory Committee). Participation is open to:
• NEMT service users and stakeholders (patients, caregivers, healthcare organizations, brokers, payers)
• Vendors and suppliers (transportation providers, medical equipment manufacturers, vehicle suppliers, software/technology firms)
• Regulatory and oversight bodies (government agencies, compliance specialists, industry consultants)
• Experts from adjacent industries (logistics, supply chain, aviation, disability rights, cybersecurity, and public safety)
• Academia and research institutions focused on transportation, healthcare access, and safety
Beyond committee participation, practical adoption of ANSI-accredited NEMT standards is essential. By integrating these standards into daily operations, technology platforms, and regulatory frameworks, organizations can help establish a universal benchmark for quality and compliance—one that aligns NEMT with broader healthcare, transportation, and public safety best practices.
We encourage broad participation from both within the NEMT industry and beyond, ensuring that standards are developed with a diverse, multidisciplinary perspective that promotes universal recognition and adoption.
You may apply to be part of the Standards Development Committee (Certification & Standards Advisory Committee). Participation is open to:
• NEMT service users and stakeholders (patients, caregivers, healthcare organizations, brokers, payers)
• Vendors and suppliers (transportation providers, medical equipment manufacturers, vehicle suppliers, software/technology firms)
• Regulatory and oversight bodies (government agencies, compliance specialists, industry consultants)
• Experts from adjacent industries (logistics, supply chain, aviation, disability rights, cybersecurity, and public safety)
• Academia and research institutions focused on transportation, healthcare access, and safety
Beyond committee participation, practical adoption of ANSI-accredited NEMT standards is essential. By integrating these standards into daily operations, technology platforms, and regulatory frameworks, organizations can help establish a universal benchmark for quality and compliance—one that aligns NEMT with broader healthcare, transportation, and public safety best practices.
INFORMATION
NEMTAC & ANSI Standards
1000 Series – Operations & Technology
NEMTAC 1001-202X: NEMT Levels of ServiceApproved as a NEMTAC Standard on October 11, 2024
Currently under review to become an American National Standard (ANS)
NEMTAC 1002-202X: Modes of Transport
Ready for public comment
NEMTAC 1003-202X: Data Definitions
Currently in draft
NEMTAC 1005-202X: Data Exchange
Currently in draft
NEMTAC 1006-202X: Standard for Passenger Verification
Approved as a NEMTAC Standard on October 11, 2024
Currently under review to become an American National Standard (ANS)
2000 Series – Accreditation Standards
NEMTAC 2001-202X: NEMT AccreditationApproved as a NEMTAC Standard
NEMTAC 2002-202X: NEMT Provider Standard
Currently in draft
NEMTAC 2003-202X: NEMT Broker Standard
Not yet drafted
NEMTAC 2004-202X: NEMT Broker Accreditation
Not yet drafted
3000 Series – Education Standards
NEMTAC 3001-202X: Transport Specialist EducationApproved as a NEMTAC Standard on February 27, 2025
Currently under review to become an American National Standard (ANS)
NEMTAC 3002-202X: Mobility Device Securement Education
Currently in draft
NEMTAC 3003-202X: Certified Stretcher Operator Education
Currently in draft
FUNDING & OVERSIGHT IN NEMT
The Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) industry is funded through a mix of private and public sources, including individuals, healthcare facilities, Medicaid, Medicare, Managed Care Programs, and state and local governments, among others. This diversity in funding has led to fragmented regulations and varying operational standards, creating inconsistencies in how NEMT services are governed, accessed, and delivered across different regions and programs.
Despite these challenges, NEMT serves as a critical safety net, ensuring that Medicaid recipients, the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income populations can access essential healthcare services. However, the lack of universal regulatory oversight and standardized best practices has contributed to variances in service quality, access, and compliance, highlighting the need for a more cohesive, industry-wide approach to standards and accreditation.
Why Funding & Oversight Entities Should Care About NEMT Standards & Accreditation
Why Industry Standards Matter for NEMT Regulation & Oversight
Funding and oversight entities should care about universal standards because:
Standardization reduces inconsistencies across funding streams and regions, ensuring fair and equitable access to transportation.
Self-regulation through industry standards strengthens credibility, preventing external overregulation while aligning NEMT with best practices across healthcare and transportation.
Clearly defined expectations create a stronger, more sustainable industry, benefiting providers, payors, and the patients who depend on NEMT.
NEMTAC: The Industry’s Trusted Standards Developer
As an independent, third-party, ANSI-accredited organization, NEMTAC sets rigorous, nationally recognized standards for NEMT providers. Supporting NEMTAC Accreditation and industry-wide standardization allows payors, regulators, and oversight entities to ensure accountability, sustainability, and the highest level of care in NEMT services.
Why NEMTAC® Accreditation Matters to Payors, Regulators, and Oversight Entities
The diverse funding sources of Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)—including Medicaid, Medicare, Managed Care Organizations (MCOs), state and federal programs, healthcare facilities, and private payors—make standardization and oversight essential. The lack of universal industry standards leads to inconsistent regulations, operational gaps, and disparities in access and quality of care.
NEMTAC® Accreditation addresses these gaps, ensuring due diligence, risk mitigation, quality oversight, and sub delegation vetting, while raising the level of care and regulatory alignment for the industry as a whole.
NEMTAC® Accreditation addresses these gaps, ensuring due diligence, risk mitigation, quality oversight, and sub delegation vetting, while raising the level of care and regulatory alignment for the industry as a whole.
Why Funders and Regulators Should Support NEMTAC-Accredited Providers
Accreditation signifies that an organization has met or exceeded industry-recognized standards for safety, operations, and quality care—helping payors and regulators identify trustworthy, high-performing providers.
Stronger oversight & accountability—Accreditation provides a structured framework that ensures providers continuously meet evolving state, federal, and industry-specific requirements.
Raising the level of care—By supporting accredited providers, payors and oversight entities help drive higher service standards, improved patient experiences, and better health outcomes.
More effective provider vetting & sub delegation oversight—Health plans, MCOs, and government agencies can streamline their credentialing and compliance processes by recognizing accredited providers as pre-vetted, reducing administrative burdens.
Market differentiation & quality assurance—NEMTAC Accreditation helps funders and regulators distinguish providers that go above and beyond minimum requirements, setting a higher industry benchmark.
Future-proofing against regulatory changes—As state and federal regulations evolve, accreditation provides a proactive framework for maintaining compliance, adapting policies, and sustaining operational excellence.
For more information on how important NEMT services are to millions of Americans, please take a moment to review these industry articles:
NEMT PASSENGERS
Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) is a lifeline for millions who rely on it to access doctor’s appointments, treatments, and essential healthcare—especially seniors, people with disabilities, Medicaid recipients, and rural residents. Without NEMT, many would miss critical care, leading to serious health risks and increased healthcare costs.
Yet, NEMT quality isn’t consistent. Some passengers receive professional, safe service, while others face delays, poorly maintained vehicles, or untrained drivers. These differences are due to varying rules, funding sources, and providers. That’s why strong, evolving standards and accreditation matter—to ensure reliable, high-quality transportation for every passenger, everywhere.
Why is NEMTAC Important to Passengers?
Passengers depend on Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) for more than just a ride—they rely on it for access to vital healthcare services. Whether it's dialysis, a specialist visit, or discharge from the hospital, safe and timely transportation directly affects health outcomes. Yet, not all NEMT services meet the same standards.
That’s where NEMTAC comes in. By setting national standards, accrediting trusted providers, and educating the industry, NEMTAC helps ensure passengers receive safe, professional, and reliable transportation—no matter where they are or who provides the ride.
Here’s how NEMTAC benefits passengers:
That’s where NEMTAC comes in. By setting national standards, accrediting trusted providers, and educating the industry, NEMTAC helps ensure passengers receive safe, professional, and reliable transportation—no matter where they are or who provides the ride.
Here’s how NEMTAC benefits passengers:
Industry Standards Mean a Better Experience for All Passengers
Even for passengers who don’t ride with an accredited company, NEMTAC’s work still matters. By developing and promoting national standards, we help raise the bar for the entire industry. When more NEMT providers follow safety and quality guidelines, passengers experience:
Our goal is to help every NEMT provider meet these standards—so no matter who a passenger rides with, they receive the care and respect they deserve.
Accredited Companies Deliver Safer, More Reliable Service
Not every NEMT company is held to the same high standards of safety, professionalism, and quality. NEMTAC accreditation is a seal of trust, ensuring that a company:
Passengers benefit because accredited companies have proven their commitment to high-quality service—meaning safer, more reliable rides.
Certified NEMT Professionals Improve Passenger Safety & Care
Drivers, dispatchers, and NEMT staff play a critical role in passenger safety, especially when transporting individuals with medical conditions, mobility challenges, or specialized needs.
NEMTAC provides certifiable education and training programs to ensure NEMT professionals are:
NEMTAC provides certifiable education and training programs to ensure NEMT professionals are:
Passengers deserve to be transported by competent, well-trained professionals—NEMTAC certification helps make that a reality.
NEMTAC Connects Passengers to a Better, More Unified NEMT Industry
One of the biggest challenges in NEMT is fragmentation—different states, payors, and providers all operate with different rules and processes. This makes it hard for passengers to know what to expect and where to turn for the best service.
NEMTAC helps bring together the different parts of the industry, creating a more connected, standardized, and transparent system. By working with:
NEMTAC helps bring together the different parts of the industry, creating a more connected, standardized, and transparent system. By working with:
We help make NEMT more reliable and accessible for the passengers who need it most.
The Bottom Line: NEMTAC Helps Passengers Get the Best Possible Transportation
At its core, NEMTAC’s mission is to improve the passenger experience by ensuring that every ride—no matter the provider—is as safe, professional, and reliable as possible. Through accreditation, industry standards, training programs, and unifying different groups across NEMT, we’re working to create a better transportation experience for passengers nationwide.
The following standards are currently under development by NEMTAC Advisory Boards.
NEMTAC® is dedicated to ensuring safe medical transportation and has a role in the establishment of American National Standards that affect our industry.
Our standards development activities have a broad scope, ranging from high-quality customer care, safe vehicle operations, life safety and ethical business practices
CONTACT USNEMTAC® is a nonprofit healthcare organization dedicated to championing national standards and best practices for the provision of the non-emergency medical transportation industry.