Understanding Transportation Assistance with Humana Medicare Advantage: Coverage, Access, and Steps to Get Help

Introduction: Transportation and Healthcare Access

Consistent access to healthcare appointments is essential for maintaining health, yet transportation challenges often create barriers, especially for older adults and people with chronic conditions. Recognizing this, many Medicare Advantage plans, including those from Humana, may offer transportation assistance as an added benefit. If you’re considering a Humana Medicare Advantage plan or are already enrolled and want to understand your options for transportation coverage, this guide will provide detailed answers, real-world examples, and step-by-step instructions for accessing help.

What Types of Transportation Benefits May Be Offered?

Humana Medicare Advantage plans frequently include non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) as a supplemental benefit. This benefit is designed to assist members in getting to covered healthcare appointments, such as doctor visits or pharmacy trips. The specifics of what is included-such as the number of rides, eligible destinations, and geographic coverage-vary depending on the plan and location. Some Humana plans partner with ride-sharing services like Lyft or Uber, while others contract with private transportation companies or offer mileage reimbursement for rides provided by caregivers or family members [1] .

Humana’s transportation coverage typically does not include emergency transportation (such as ambulance service for life-threatening situations). Emergency services are generally covered by Medicare Part B when medically necessary [3] .

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How Does Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) Work?

Non-emergency medical transportation through Humana is commonly arranged by third-party companies. For example, LogistiCare and SafeRide Health are frequently contracted to provide ride scheduling and management for Humana Medicare Advantage members [2] [4] . The process generally involves:

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• Advance reservation : Members are usually required to schedule rides at least 72 hours in advance and no more than two weeks before their appointment. This advance planning helps ensure availability and proper coordination.
• Types of vehicles : Depending on your needs and physical condition, transportation may be provided by car, van, taxi, or wheelchair-accessible vehicle. For those able to travel with assistance, an escort may be permitted if medically necessary and space is available.
• Covered destinations : Transportation is typically available to any facility or provider that offers a covered healthcare service under your Humana plan.
• Trip limits : The number of rides provided (or covered miles) can vary by plan. Always check your specific plan documents or contact customer service to understand your limits.
• Cost : There is usually no additional out-of-pocket cost for approved transportation services under Humana Medicare Advantage HMO plans [2] .

Case Study: Scheduling a Ride with Humana

Consider the example of a member who needs a ride to a routine appointment. If enrolled in a participating Humana Medicare Advantage HMO plan, the member can contact the transportation provider (such as LogistiCare or SafeRide Health) by phone. After providing their member ID, appointment details, and pick-up information, the ride is scheduled. If the member uses a wheelchair, they must supply the wheelchair themselves. If plans change, the member is expected to notify the transportation provider as soon as possible to avoid wasted trips and to serve other members efficiently [2] .

Gas Mileage Reimbursement and Alternative Transportation

Some Humana Medicare Advantage plans, particularly those using SafeRide Health, offer a gas mileage reimbursement program . This allows caregivers, family members, or the member themselves to receive reimbursement for driving to medical appointments. To qualify, the ride must be booked through SafeRide Health before the trip, and the driver must be registered through the official online application portal. Claims require submission of a completed mileage reimbursement form and supporting documentation. For assistance with registering or submitting claims, you can call SafeRide Health at 877-841-3647 (TTY: 711), available Monday through Friday, 8 am to 8 pm local time [4] .

Who Is Eligible for Transportation Assistance?

Eligibility for transportation benefits depends on the specific Humana Medicare Advantage plan and the member’s location. Some plans or regions may have additional requirements, such as medical necessity, a lack of access to alternative transportation, or living in a specific service area. To determine your eligibility:

• Review your plan’s Evidence of Coverage (EOC) document, which outlines all covered benefits.
• Call the customer service number on the back of your Humana member ID card for personalized assistance.
• If you are unsure which plan you have, ask for clarification or request printed materials outlining your benefits.

Step-by-Step: How to Access Transportation Assistance

1. Check your plan : Read your Evidence of Coverage or Summary of Benefits to verify that transportation assistance is included in your Humana Medicare Advantage plan.
2. Contact the transportation provider : Find the dedicated transportation phone number in your member materials. For LogistiCare, call the number listed in your plan brochure. For SafeRide Health, use their member support line (877-841-3647) or email [email protected].
3. Schedule your ride in advance : Make your reservation at least 72 hours before your appointment, but no more than two weeks out. Be ready to provide your member ID, appointment details, and pick-up location.
4. Prepare for your ride : Be ready at the scheduled pick-up time. Drivers are generally required to wait only 10 minutes past the scheduled time.
5. After your appointment : If you need a return trip, confirm your ride details in advance. If your appointment is canceled or rescheduled, notify the transportation provider as soon as possible.
6. For gas mileage reimbursement : Register your driver with SafeRide Health, book the ride in advance, and submit the required reimbursement form after your trip.

Alternative Resources for Transportation Help

If your Humana Medicare Advantage plan does not include transportation coverage, or if you have exhausted your plan’s ride limit, there are several alternative options:

• Local Area Agencies on Aging : These agencies can provide information on community transportation services for older adults. You can search for your local agency at the official Eldercare Locator website operated by the U.S. Administration for Community Living (www.eldercare.acl.gov) or call 1-800-677-1116 (TTY: 711).
• Nonprofit organizations : Many local nonprofits, religious groups, or volunteer driver programs offer rides for seniors and people with disabilities. Contact your local United Way or community center for referrals.
• Public transit and paratransit : Some cities and counties offer discounted or specialized transit for individuals with mobility challenges. Search for “paratransit” or “senior transportation” services in your city.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

While transportation benefits can be a lifeline, members sometimes face challenges such as limited ride availability, geographic restrictions, or scheduling conflicts. Here are tips to overcome common hurdles:

• Plan ahead : Always schedule rides as early as possible to ensure availability, especially during peak times.
• Keep your information ready : When calling to schedule a ride, have your member ID, provider address, and appointment time on hand.
• Explore all options : If your plan’s rides are limited, combine them with rides from community resources or use gas mileage reimbursement if eligible.
• Ask about exceptions : If you have a unique situation, such as frequent medical appointments or special mobility needs, call your plan’s customer service to request assistance or appeal for expanded support.

Summary and Key Takeaways

Humana Medicare Advantage plans often include valuable transportation assistance, from non-emergency medical rides to gas mileage reimbursement. These benefits can help remove barriers to care, but availability and specifics vary by plan and region. To access help, review your plan documents, schedule rides in advance, and use all available community resources. If you have questions or need further support, contact Humana customer service using the number on your member ID card or reach out to SafeRide Health for gas mileage reimbursement information.

References

• [1] Medicare on Video (2025). Does Humana Medicare Provide Transportation Benefits?
• [2] TMG IPA (2025). Routine Medical Transportation for Humana’s Medicare Advantage HMO plans.
• [3] Humana (2025). Medicare Transportation and Ambulance Coverage.
• [4] SafeRide Health (2025). Humana Health Plan Gas Mileage Reimbursement Program.
• [5] Humana (2019). Transportation could take you to better health.