Medical Transportation Services in Rochester, NY: A Patient's Guide

Rochester is home to some of western New York's finest healthcare institutions — from the University of Rochester Medical Center to Strong Memorial Hospital and a network of specialist clinics throughout Monroe County. But having world-class care nearby means little if getting there is a barrier.

Medical transportation services Rochester NY patients depend on bridge that gap, providing safe, accessible rides for those who cannot drive or navigate public transit to reach their appointments.

Who Uses Medical Transport in Rochester, NY?

The Rochester NEMT population mirrors national trends with some regional characteristics:

•Patients in Rochester's urban neighborhoods where car ownership is low

•Elderly residents in Monroe County suburban communities with limited transit access

•New York State Medicaid recipients eligible for transportation benefits

•Patients attending Strong Memorial, Rochester Regional Health, or Unity Hospital campuses

•Dialysis patients attending kidney care centers in the Rochester metro area

New York State Medicaid Transportation in Rochester

New York State's Medicaid program includes non-emergency medical transportation as a covered benefit. In the Rochester area (Monroe County), transportation services are coordinated through the county's Medical Transportation Program under the Department of Human Services.

To access Medicaid NEMT in Rochester:

1.Call Monroe County's medical transportation unit (check the NY State of Health website for current contact numbers).

2.Provide your Medicaid ID, appointment details, destination, and mobility needs.

3.Request at least 3–5 business days in advance when possible, as county scheduling can be limited.

Alternatively, managed care plans within NY Medicaid may have their own transportation arrangements.

Private NEMT Options in Rochester

For patients who do not qualify for Medicaid NEMT, have appointments in areas not covered by county services, or need more scheduling flexibility, private-pay NEMT providers fill the gap. When selecting a private provider in the Rochester area:

•Confirm the provider is licensed in New York State

•Verify wheelchair accessibility if needed

•Ask about on-time performance and how late arrivals are handled

•Get a clear pricing structure before your first trip

Medical Facilities Commonly Served in Rochester

•Strong Memorial Hospital and the University of Rochester Medical Center campus

•Rochester Regional Health (Rochester General Hospital, Unity Hospital)

•Highland Hospital

•Jones Memorial Hospital

•DaVita and Fresenius kidney care centers across Monroe County

•Wilmot Cancer Center

•Thompson Health and other Monroe County specialty clinics

Types of Medical Transportation Available in Rochester

•Ambulatory transport — for patients who can walk to the vehicle with assistance.

•Wheelchair-accessible transport — for patients using manual or power wheelchairs.

•Stretcher transport — for patients who must travel lying down.

•Medical escort services — where a trained aide accompanies the patient, in addition to the driver.

Scheduling Tips for Rochester Medical Transport

•Allow extra travel time — Rochester winters create road conditions that delay even well-planned rides.

•Set up standing orders for recurring appointments rather than rebooking each time.

•For specialty hospital visits, confirm the exact building entrance and parking instructions with the provider.

•For appointments at the URMC campus specifically, note which building — the medical center campus is large.

ACMA Medical Transport serves patients throughout our service area. Visit acmamedicaltransport.com/our-services or contact us to learn more.

Schedule your Rochester medical transport ride with ACMA today.

Request a Ride at acmamedicaltransport.com/request-a-ride

Frequently Asked Questions

Does NY Medicaid cover medical transportation in Rochester?

Yes. New York State Medicaid includes NEMT as a covered benefit. In Monroe County, this is often coordinated through county services. Contact Monroe County's medical transportation unit or your Medicaid managed care plan for details.

How far in advance should I book a medical transport ride in Rochester?

For Medicaid-covered county services, 3–5 business days. For private NEMT, 24–48 hours is typically sufficient. Set up standing orders for recurring appointments.

Are wheelchair-accessible medical transport vehicles available in Rochester, NY?

Yes. ACMA Medical Transport and other providers in the area operate ADA-compliant, wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

What is the best way to get to Strong Memorial Hospital if I cannot drive?

Non-emergency medical transportation is your best option. Contact an NEMT provider or your Medicaid plan to arrange a ride.

Can I get a same-day medical transport ride in Rochester?

Same-day availability varies by provider and demand. Contact ACMA Medical Transport directly to check availability for urgent transport needs.