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Frequently asked questions

Every question, answered

69 questions organized by topic. If your question isn't here, call us — chances are it'll be on this page within the week.

DachiPlus answers 40+ questions about medical transportation on Long Island — Medicaid booking via MAS, Medicare Advantage coverage, private-pay rates, wheelchair vehicles, service area, and more. Quick answer: Medicaid members call MAS at 1-844-666-6270. Private pay: call (516) 754-7777.

General

General questions

How do I find non-emergency medical transportation near me on Long Island?

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If you are in Nassau County or Suffolk County, DachiPlus provides non-emergency medical transportation services throughout Long Island. For Medicaid-covered medical transportation, call MAS at 1-844-666-6270 and request DachiPlus by name. For private pay or insurance-based medical transportation near you, call (516) 754-7777 directly. We serve all towns across both counties, Monday through Saturday, 6 AM–8 PM.

What is non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT)?

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Non-emergency medical transportation, or NEMT, is scheduled ground transportation for patients who need help getting to medical appointments but do not require ambulance-level care. NEMT vehicles include sedans for ambulatory passengers and wheelchair-accessible vans (ambulettes) for passengers with mobility devices. Drivers are trained in passenger assistance but are not paramedics.

What hours does DachiPlus operate?

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DachiPlus operates Monday through Saturday, 6 AM to 8 PM. Trips outside these hours or on Sundays may be available for facility contracts and certain insurance-billed trips — call (516) 754-7777 to confirm.

What areas does DachiPlus serve?

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DachiPlus serves all of Suffolk County and Nassau County on Long Island. We also provide long-distance medical transportation from Long Island to specialty facilities throughout New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.

Can a family member or aide ride with me?

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Yes. We allow one companion or aide to ride at no additional cost on most trips. For multiple companions or specific seating needs, please mention this when booking.

Medicaid

Medicaid questions

How do I book Medicaid medical transportation in Suffolk or Nassau County?

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In New York, Medicaid transportation is coordinated through Medical Answering Services (MAS) at 1-844-666-6270. You call MAS at least 72 hours before your appointment, provide your Medicaid ID, appointment information, and any mobility needs, and request that DachiPlus be assigned as your provider. MAS will confirm the trip and notify us to dispatch a vehicle.

What is MAS (Medical Answering Services)?

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Medical Answering Services, commonly called MAS, is the broker that manages Medicaid non-emergency medical transportation across most of New York State, including Long Island. MAS verifies your Medicaid eligibility, confirms your appointment, and assigns a transportation provider. You can request a specific provider, like DachiPlus, when you call.

How far in advance do I need to schedule a Medicaid ride in New York?

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New York State requires Medicaid transportation requests be made at least three business days (72 hours) before your appointment. Urgent or same-day medical needs may qualify for expedited scheduling — call MAS at 1-844-666-6270 to confirm.

How much does Medicaid medical transportation cost?

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Medicaid medical transportation is free to eligible Medicaid members. There is no copay, fare, or out-of-pocket cost for trips approved through MAS. The provider bills Medicaid directly.

Can I request a specific NEMT provider through MAS?

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Yes. When you call MAS, you can request a specific provider by name. Ask the MAS representative to assign your trip to DachiPlus. If we have availability for your appointment window and your trip type, MAS will assign the trip to us.

What happens if I miss my Medicaid transport pickup?

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If you miss your scheduled pickup, call DachiPlus directly at (516) 754-7777 as soon as possible. Depending on the timing and our availability, we may be able to dispatch another vehicle, or you may need to contact MAS to reschedule. Repeated no-shows can affect future trip approvals.

Can a family member ride with me on Medicaid transportation?

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Yes. Medicaid generally allows one approved escort to ride at no additional cost, particularly for minors, passengers with cognitive impairment, or anyone requiring assistance during the trip. Mention any companion when booking with MAS.

How much does Medicaid pay providers for non-emergency transportation?

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Medicaid reimbursement rates for non-emergency medical transportation are set by the New York State Department of Health and vary by trip type — ambulatory, wheelchair, stretcher, and long-distance trips each have different rates. Rates also vary by region. The provider receives payment directly from Medicaid; the patient pays nothing.

Does Medicaid cover transportation to mental health appointments?

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Yes. New York Medicaid covers non-emergency medical transportation to mental health appointments — therapy, psychiatry, outpatient behavioral health programs, and substance use treatment. Call MAS at 1-844-666-6270 at least 72 hours before your appointment and request DachiPlus. For daily programs like methadone, ask MAS to set up a standing order.

Is transportation to addiction treatment covered by Medicaid?

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Yes. New York Medicaid covers transportation to all forms of outpatient substance use treatment — methadone clinics, Suboxone providers, drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs, and PHP/IOP treatment centers. Book through MAS at 1-844-666-6270. Daily methadone trips can be pre-authorized via a standing order.

Does Medicaid cover transportation to infusion therapy?

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Yes, if the infusion appointment is at a Medicaid-covered facility and you are an eligible Medicaid member. Call MAS at 1-844-666-6270 at least 72 hours before your appointment. For biologic infusions on recurring cycles (every 4 or 8 weeks), ask MAS to set up a recurring authorization.

Does Medicaid cover transportation to cardiac rehabilitation?

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Yes. New York Medicaid covers non-emergency medical transportation to cardiac rehabilitation programs for eligible members. Call MAS at 1-844-666-6270 and set up a standing order for Phase II cardiac rehab sessions — typically 2–3 times per week. Provide the program name, facility address, and session schedule when you call.

Does Medicaid cover transportation to wound care appointments?

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Yes. Medicaid covers transportation to outpatient wound care clinics for eligible members. Call MAS at 1-844-666-6270 and set up a standing order for recurring wound care visits. Provide the wound care clinic address and your weekly appointment schedule.

Does Medicaid cover transportation to adult day programs?

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Yes. New York Medicaid covers transportation to approved adult day health care programs (ADHCP) for eligible members. Call MAS at 1-844-666-6270 to set up a standing order for daily or multi-day-per-week transport. Long-term care insurance (LTCI) also typically covers adult day program transportation.

Does Medicaid cover transportation to radiation therapy?

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Yes. Medicaid covers transportation to radiation therapy for eligible members. Call MAS at 1-844-666-6270 and request a standing order for daily radiation — one call covers your full treatment course. Medicare Advantage plans also typically cover radiation transportation.

Does Medicaid cover transportation for groceries or errands?

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No. New York Medicaid (through MAS) only covers transportation to and from Medicaid-covered medical appointments — it does not pay for grocery runs, pharmacy pickups, or other non-medical errands. Errand and non-medical transportation is private pay. Some long-term care insurance (LTCI) and Managed Long-Term Care (MLTC) plans include a non-medical or companion-transportation benefit, so it is worth checking your plan. For medical appointments, Medicaid transportation is available — call MAS at 1-844-666-6270 and request DachiPlus.

What is the Medicaid transportation phone number in New York?

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The Medicaid transportation phone number in New York is MAS (Medical Answering Services) at 1-844-666-6270 — the statewide broker that books free non-emergency medical rides for Medicaid members, including all of Nassau and Suffolk County on Long Island. Call Monday–Friday, 7 AM–6 PM, at least 72 hours before your appointment; have your Medicaid CIN and appointment details ready, and request DachiPlus as your provider. For private-pay rides or help, call DachiPlus directly at (516) 754-7777.

Private Pay

Private Pay questions

How much does private-pay medical transportation cost on Long Island?

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Private-pay rates depend on trip type, distance, and vehicle. Ambulatory trips within Suffolk or Nassau typically start around $50–$75. Wheelchair-accessible trips start around $90–$120. Long-distance trips are quoted by route. Wait time and return trips may carry additional charges. Call (516) 754-7777 for an exact quote.

What payment methods do you accept for private rides?

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We accept all major credit and debit cards, HSA and FSA cards, and direct billing for approved insurance categories including workers' compensation, no-fault auto, long-term care insurance, and Medicare Advantage transportation benefits where covered.

Can I book a private-pay ride for today?

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Yes, when vehicles are available. Same-day private booking depends on driver availability and pickup location. Call (516) 754-7777 to check; we confirm or decline same-day requests within the call.

Can I pay for medical transportation with HSA or FSA funds?

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Yes. Medical transportation to and from qualified medical appointments is an eligible HSA and FSA expense under IRS rules. We provide itemized receipts that include date, mileage, and trip purpose for your records.

Medicare

Medicare questions

Does Medicare cover non-emergency medical transportation?

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Original Medicare (Parts A and B) generally does not cover routine non-emergency medical transportation. Medicare typically covers ambulance services only in emergencies or when other transportation would endanger your health. However, many Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans include transportation as a supplemental benefit. Check your Medicare Advantage plan documents or ask DachiPlus to verify your coverage.

Does Medicare Advantage cover medical transportation?

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Many Medicare Advantage plans include transportation as a supplemental benefit, typically a set number of one-way trips per year to plan-approved medical appointments. Benefits vary by plan and may require coordination through a designated transportation vendor. We can help verify your coverage when you call.

Insurance & Workers' Comp

Insurance & Workers' Comp questions

Does New York workers' compensation cover medical transportation?

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Yes. Under New York Workers' Compensation Law, transportation to authorized medical appointments related to a work-related injury is covered. DachiPlus bills directly to the carrier or self-insured employer using the NF-3 or equivalent form. We require the case number, carrier information, and adjuster contact at booking.

Does New York no-fault auto insurance cover medical rides?

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Yes. New York no-fault auto insurance (PIP) covers medical transportation related to injuries from a motor vehicle accident. Coverage typically extends to medical appointments, physical therapy, diagnostic imaging, and specialist visits. DachiPlus bills the no-fault carrier directly; we need the claim number, carrier, and adjuster contact.

Can I use long-term care insurance for medical transportation?

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Many long-term care insurance policies cover transportation to medical appointments as a covered benefit, particularly for policyholders receiving in-home care. Reimbursement rules vary by policy. We provide detailed invoices suitable for LTCI reimbursement and can coordinate direct billing where the carrier supports it.

How does no-fault auto insurance billing work for medical transportation?

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DachiPlus bills no-fault carriers directly using NF-3 transportation expense forms. You provide your claim number and carrier name when booking; we handle all paperwork. There is typically no upfront cost to the patient. We work with personal injury attorneys and case managers throughout Long Island for streamlined billing.

Who qualifies for no-fault auto transportation coverage?

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Any person injured in a motor vehicle accident in New York State qualifies for no-fault (PIP) transportation benefits, regardless of fault. This includes the driver, passengers, and pedestrians hit by a vehicle. Coverage applies to transportation to all accident-related medical treatment — physical therapy, chiropractic, orthopedic, pain management, and IME appointments.

Do you transport patients to independent medical examinations (IME)?

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Yes, and we treat IME appointments with strict punctuality — a missed IME can have serious legal and coverage consequences. We confirm the exact IME address (often in office buildings, not hospitals), provide ample pickup time, and can provide signed trip records for your attorney or claim file.

How is TBI transportation billed — no-fault or workers comp?

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TBI resulting from a motor vehicle accident is billed through NY no-fault (PIP) insurance using NF-3 forms. Work-related TBI is billed through workers' compensation. We work directly with attorneys, adjustors, and case managers to handle billing — there is typically no upfront cost to the patient. Medicaid is also accepted for TBI patients who are eligible.

Services & Equipment

Services & Equipment questions

What is the difference between an ambulette and an ambulance?

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An ambulance is staffed by EMTs or paramedics and is used for medical emergencies or transports requiring active medical monitoring. An ambulette is a wheelchair-accessible van staffed by a trained driver-attendant who helps the passenger safely board, secure, and exit the vehicle. Ambulettes are used for scheduled medical appointments where the passenger is stable but needs accessibility or assistance.

What is the difference between NEMT and an ambulette?

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NEMT is the broader category that includes both ambulatory transportation (standard sedans or wagons) and wheelchair-accessible ambulettes. An ambulette is a specific type of NEMT vehicle equipped with a hydraulic lift or ramp and four-point securement for wheelchairs.

What kinds of wheelchairs can you accommodate?

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We transport patients who use standard manual wheelchairs and can transfer to a vehicle seat — the wheelchair is folded and stored in the trunk. Patients who use power wheelchairs or cannot transfer out of their wheelchair should call us; we can help coordinate through Medicaid ambulette services or a licensed wheelchair-accessible van provider.

Can patients on oxygen ride with you?

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Yes. We routinely transport passengers using portable oxygen concentrators and oxygen cylinders. Please mention oxygen use when booking so the driver is prepared and seating is configured appropriately.

Can you transport bariatric passengers?

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Yes. Our wheelchair-accessible vans accommodate bariatric passengers and bariatric mobility equipment. For very large capacity needs, please describe the situation at booking so we can confirm the correct vehicle.

Do you offer recurring transportation for dialysis patients?

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Yes. Dialysis is our largest recurring service category. We set up standing orders for your three-times-weekly schedule, assign consistent drivers when possible, and coordinate directly with your dialysis center.

Does Medicaid cover dialysis transportation?

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Yes. Dialysis is a Medicaid-covered medical service, and the transportation to and from dialysis appointments is covered through MAS. Standing orders for your recurring schedule can be set up through MAS so you don't have to call before every trip.

Will the driver wait during my dialysis treatment?

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Most dialysis trips use a drop-off / return-pickup model rather than driver wait time. The driver drops you off, and a vehicle returns at the scheduled pickup time after treatment. Your dialysis center will coordinate the pickup window with us.

Do you provide recurring rides for chemotherapy and radiation?

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Yes. Like dialysis, chemo and daily radiation are recurring services. We set up standing orders, assign consistent drivers when possible, and coordinate with your oncology center. Drivers are trained to handle post-treatment fatigue and nausea.

How do you protect immunocompromised passengers?

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For passengers undergoing chemotherapy, transplant care, or other treatments that suppress immune function, our vehicles follow enhanced cleaning protocols between trips. Mask wearing by the driver is available on request. We can also avoid back-to-back trip pairings with passengers showing symptoms of illness.

Can family members or caregivers ride along with seniors?

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Yes. We strongly encourage family members or home health aides to ride with senior passengers, especially for first appointments, cognitively impaired passengers, or post-discharge trips. Companion seating is included at no extra cost.

Can you transport patients with dementia or cognitive impairment?

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Yes. Our drivers receive sensitivity training for passengers with dementia, Alzheimer's, and other cognitive conditions. For these passengers we strongly recommend a family member or aide ride along. Please mention any cognitive concerns at booking so we can assign an experienced driver.

Can you pick up from memory care facilities or assisted living?

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Yes. We work with many assisted living and memory care facilities across Long Island. We can pick up directly from the facility, coordinate with facility staff for handoff, and return the passenger to the same staff member upon completion.

Do you coordinate directly with hospital discharge planners?

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Yes. We have established relationships with case management and discharge planning teams at most Long Island hospitals. Hospital social workers and case managers can call us directly at (516) 754-7777 to arrange same-day discharge transportation.

Can you do same-day hospital discharges?

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Yes. Same-day discharge is one of our core capabilities. Call (516) 754-7777 as soon as discharge timing is known; the more notice we have, the more flexible the pickup window.

Can my hospital case manager call to arrange my discharge transport?

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Yes. Hospital case managers, social workers, and discharge planners can arrange transportation on a patient's behalf. We accept the booking, confirm the timing, and follow up directly with the floor.

How much does long-distance medical transportation cost?

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Long-distance trips are quoted individually based on round-trip mileage, vehicle type (ambulatory or wheelchair-accessible), and time required. Trips to NYC specialty centers typically range $200–$400 round trip; longer trips quoted on request.

Can you do overnight or multi-day long-distance trips?

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Yes, for special situations. Overnight transports — for example, family transfers to upstate care facilities — are quoted individually and typically require a deposit. Call (516) 754-7777 to discuss specifics.

Do you provide recurring rides to physical therapy?

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Yes. Most PT patients attend two or three times per week for several weeks. We set up standing orders to match your PT schedule and bill the appropriate carrier — Medicaid, private pay, workers' compensation, or no-fault auto.

What kind of vehicle do you use for post-surgery pickups?

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For post-surgery pickups we use wheelchair-accessible vehicles by default — they have more room, lower step-in heights, and accommodate crutches, walkers, knee scooters, and IV poles. Drivers know to load gently, avoid sharp acceleration or braking, and assist with seat positioning.

Do you provide daily transportation to methadone clinics?

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Yes. DachiPlus provides daily transportation to methadone maintenance programs (MMPs) and opioid treatment programs (OTPs) across Long Island. Medicaid covers most methadone clinic transportation through a MAS standing order — one authorization covers recurring daily trips. Private pay is also available. Call (516) 754-7777 to set up a schedule.

Can you transport patients to PHP or IOP programs?

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Yes. DachiPlus transports patients to partial hospitalization programs (PHP) and intensive outpatient programs (IOP) for behavioral health and substance use treatment. These programs typically meet multiple times per week or daily. Medicaid covers transportation via MAS standing order; private pay is also accepted.

How do you coordinate return pickup after infusion therapy?

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Infusion sessions vary in length — some run 2 hours, others 6+ hours. We coordinate return pickup directly with the infusion center staff. When you call to schedule, give us the facility name and expected infusion duration. On the day, the clinic notifies us when you are finishing and we dispatch for your return trip. No waiting at the curb.

How often does cardiac rehabilitation require transportation?

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Phase II cardiac rehabilitation programs typically run 2–3 sessions per week for 12–36 sessions over several weeks. Phase III maintenance programs may continue indefinitely. DachiPlus sets up standing orders so you have consistent transport for the full duration of your program without needing to rebook each time.

How often do wound care patients need transportation?

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Outpatient wound care typically requires 1–3 clinic visits per week, sometimes more for complex wounds or hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). DachiPlus provides standing-order recurring transport and coordinates with your wound care team on the schedule. Drivers are briefed on dressing protection and gentle boarding.

Can you provide daily transportation to adult day programs?

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Yes — up to 5 days per week. DachiPlus provides morning pickup and afternoon return transport to adult day health care programs, PACE sites, and social adult day services across Long Island. Same-driver continuity helps participants feel comfortable, especially for those with cognitive impairments like dementia.

Can you provide daily transportation for radiation therapy?

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Yes. Radiation therapy requires daily Monday–Friday sessions for 4–8 weeks straight. DachiPlus sets up a standing order for the full treatment course — you are covered for the entire schedule with one booking call. Same driver assignment is available for routine.

Do radiation therapy patients need special transportation considerations?

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Radiation fatigue builds cumulatively — patients who felt fine in week one may feel very tired by week four. DachiPlus drivers are aware of post-radiation fatigue and allow extra time for boarding, minimize conversation if requested, and assist from the facility exit to the vehicle. No rushing.

Do you have experience transporting traumatic brain injury patients?

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Yes. TBI patients have specific transport needs — sensitivity to noise and light, unpredictable fatigue, communication difficulties, and the need for a calm, familiar environment. DachiPlus assigns consistent drivers for TBI patients, briefs them on behavioral patterns provided by the family or care team, and allows extra time for boarding and exit.

What is non-medical transportation for seniors?

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Non-medical transportation covers the everyday trips that are not medical appointments — grocery shopping, picking up prescriptions, banking, the hair salon or barber, religious services, and visiting family. DachiPlus provides these rides across Nassau and Suffolk Counties with the same door-through-door care as our medical trips, including help with steps and carrying bags, and an option for the driver to wait and bring you home on the same trip.

Can the driver wait and bring me back on an errand trip?

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Yes. For errands like a grocery run, pharmacy pickup, or salon visit, DachiPlus offers a wait-and-return option — the same driver takes you, waits while you finish, and brings you home on the same trip. This is often the easiest option for shorter outings. Tell us at booking whether you want a wait-and-return ride or a scheduled return pickup at a set time. Wait-and-return errand trips are private pay.

What is bariatric medical transportation?

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Bariatric medical transportation is non-emergency transport equipped for higher-weight patients who need extra space, sturdier supportive seating, or additional hands-on assistance. DachiPlus assesses your weight, mobility, and equipment needs when you book so the right vehicle is sent. Ambulatory and transfer-capable patients ride in an appropriately-sized vehicle; patients who need a lift or in-vehicle securement are served through higher-capacity wheelchair-accessible vehicles we coordinate with licensed partners.

What kind of vehicle is used for bariatric transport, and is there a weight limit?

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It depends on your needs, which is why we ask at booking. Patients who can walk or transfer to a seat ride in a roomier SUV with firm, supportive seating and grab assistance. Patients who cannot transfer, exceed standard vehicle capacity, or need a hydraulic lift and securement are matched to a higher-capacity wheelchair-accessible (WAV) vehicle coordinated through our licensed partners. Rather than quote a single weight limit, we confirm honestly what we can serve directly and what we will arrange through a partner — so your trip is never a surprise on the day.

How do I know if I qualify for wheelchair transport or need an ambulette?

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It comes down to one question: can you transfer out of your wheelchair to a vehicle seat for the ride, with driver assistance? If yes — and you use a manual or folding wheelchair — DachiPlus transports you directly: the driver assists the transfer and folds your wheelchair into the trunk. If you cannot transfer, use a power wheelchair or scooter, or must stay in your wheelchair during the trip, you need an ambulette (wheelchair van) with a lift and in-vehicle securement, which we coordinate through licensed WAV partners. When in doubt, call (516) 754-7777 and describe your situation — we will tell you exactly which applies.