Key facts
How does Medicaid transportation work in New York?
The Department of Health contracts a transportation broker, Medical Answering Services, which schedules trips, manages contact centres, performs utilisation review and other administrative functions for the Medicaid transportation programme.[1]
Which kinds of providers carry New York Medicaid trips?
Trips are arranged at the most medically appropriate, cost-effective level of service, which the Department lists as public transit, taxi or livery, ambulette, ambulance (advanced or basic life support) and personal vehicle mileage reimbursement. A new provider chooses which levels it will serve.[1]
How far ahead are trips booked?
Members should contact the transportation manager at least 72 hours before the appointment, and all trips must be prior-approved, so most work is known days ahead.[1]
How do I start?
Form the company, license and insure vehicles for the level of service you will provide (in New York City, taxi and livery work runs through TLC licensing), enrol as a Medicaid provider and follow the transportation manager's provider requirements.
For TLC licensing see taxi licensing in New York City.
Frequently asked questions
Who is New York's Medicaid transportation broker?
Medical Answering Services (MAS), under contract with the New York State Department of Health.
Can a taxi or livery company carry Medicaid trips in New York?
Yes; taxi and livery is one of the levels of service the Department lists, booked through the transportation manager.
Sources
Fees and rules change. Each source is the official page we read, with the date we read it; check it before you apply or pay.
- [1] New York State Department of Health: Medicaid transportation (read 3 Nov 2026)