What is an ambulette?
An ambulette is a wheelchair-accessible van equipped with a hydraulic lift or ramp, floor-track securement systems, and tie-down straps that hold the wheelchair in place during transit. The passenger never leaves their wheelchair — they board, the chair is secured, and they ride to their destination seated in their own chair.
Ambulettes are staffed by trained drivers (sometimes called ambulette attendants) who are certified in wheelchair securement and passenger assistance. In New York State, ambulettes must be licensed by the Department of Health and carry specific commercial vehicle insurance. The ambulette is also referred to as a WAV (wheelchair-accessible vehicle) or accessible van.
Who needs an ambulette vs. a standard NEMT vehicle?
The key question is: can the passenger transfer from their wheelchair to a standard vehicle seat?
- Ambulette required — passenger cannot safely transfer to a vehicle seat, uses a power wheelchair, uses a tilt/recline wheelchair, or has a condition (stroke, advanced MS, ALS, severe contractures) that makes transfer medically unsafe.
- Standard NEMT sedan — passenger can safely transfer to a vehicle seat with driver assistance; their manual wheelchair is folded and stored in the trunk.
When calling MAS or DachiPlus, be specific about whether the patient can transfer. Saying "wheelchair user" without clarifying often results in a sedan dispatch — and a missed appointment when the driver arrives and finds the patient cannot transfer.
Does Medicaid cover ambulette service in New York?
Yes. New York Medicaid covers ambulette service as part of the Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) benefit for eligible members. The booking process goes through MAS (Medical Answering Services) at 1-844-666-6270, exactly like a standard NEMT trip — you just specify wheelchair vehicle or ambulette when describing your mobility needs.
Per NY State DOH NEMT policy, the vehicle type authorized must match the member's documented mobility needs. If your doctor has documented that you cannot transfer, MAS must authorize an ambulette, not a sedan.
How does DachiPlus coordinate ambulette transport?
DachiPlus currently operates ambulatory sedans and SUVs — vehicles for passengers who can transfer to a standard seat. For passengers who cannot transfer and require an in-vehicle wheelchair securement (true ambulette service), DachiPlus coordinates through licensed WAV partner providers in Nassau and Suffolk County.
In practice this means:
- Call DachiPlus at (516) 754-7777 or book through MAS, specifying ambulette/wheelchair-accessible vehicle.
- We confirm with a licensed WAV partner for your trip date and time.
- A credentialed ambulette dispatches to your address.
- Billing flows through the same Medicaid/private-pay process.
How much does ambulette service cost on Long Island?
For Medicaid members: nothing out-of-pocket. Medicaid covers ambulette service at the authorized rate, paid directly to the provider. You call MAS, specify your mobility needs, and ride at no cost.
For private-pay: ambulette trips on Long Island typically run higher than sedan NEMT due to vehicle cost and licensing requirements. Call (516) 754-7777 for a current quote — rates depend on distance, trip type, and scheduling window.