Does Medicare cover transportation to doctor visits?
Original Medicare usually does not pay for routine rides to the doctor. It covers emergency ambulance trips when other travel could put your parent’s health at risk. With a written order from the doctor, it may also cover some non-emergency ambulance rides that are medically needed.
After the Part B deductible, your parent usually pays 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for a covered ambulance trip.
Other places to look for rides:
- Medicare Advantage. Some plans offer extra benefits that Original Medicare does not. Call the plan and ask if rides to visits are part of it.
- Medicaid. Medicaid has a ride benefit called NEMT for people who need help getting to medical care. Each state runs its own program.
- Community programs. See our FAQ on free transportation for seniors.
Sources
This answer is general information, not medical, legal or financial advice. Rules can vary by state.
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