For medical emergencies, call
9-1-1 immediately. This page is for non-emergency transportation only.
Patients & Visitors
Non-Emergency Patient Transportation Options
This is a directory of non-emergency transportation resources for patients.
Contact information, hours, and service areas may change. Please confirm
details directly with each provider before scheduling.
If you do not require ambulance-level medical care, the following services
can help you get to and from appointments, discharges, and other medical
visits. Requirements, fees, and scheduling windows vary, contact each
service directly to confirm details.
Plan ahead - book at least 7 business days in advance. Most transportation companies require advance scheduling. Contact your
preferred company as early as possible to secure your ride, especially
for time-sensitive appointments.
Offers non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for eligible patients,
including wheelchair-accessible and ambulatory rides to and from medical
appointments.
A local non-emergency transportation service offering scheduled rides for
medical appointments, discharges, and routine transfers within parts of
Kern County.
IEHP is a Medi-Cal managed care plan serving Riverside and San Bernardino
counties. Included as a resource for patients connected to the Trona /
Searles Valley area.
Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan - Transportation
Blue Shield Promise is a Medi-Cal managed care plan serving parts of California,
offering no-cost transportation to and from covered medical appointments.
Several services offer 24/7 urgent or after-hours assistance, including
Kern Health Care Transportation and some Medi-Cal plans. Call and explain
your situation - most will do their best to accommodate you.
What do I need to have ready when I call?
Typically: your name, appointment date and time, pickup and drop-off addresses,
and - if applicable - your Medi-Cal or insurance ID. Some services may
also require a Physician Certification Statement (PCS).
Will I have to pay for my ride?
It depends on the service and your coverage. Medi-Cal-covered transportation
(NEMT/NMT) is typically provided at no cost to eligible members. Rideshare,
taxi, and Dial-A-Ride services may charge a fare unless covered by your
specific plan - confirm payment details directly with the provider when booking.
Can I schedule recurring rides for ongoing treatment?
Yes - many services, especially Medi-Cal transportation benefits, can arrange
recurring rides for regular treatments like dialysis, physical therapy,
or chemotherapy. Let the transportation service know when booking that
you need a recurring schedule so they can set up standing appointments.
What if my ride doesn’t show up?
Call the transportation company right away - they may be delayed or able
to send another vehicle. If you can’t reach them or your appointment
is at risk, notify your clinic that you may be late and consider a backup
option like a taxi or rideshare.
What if I need to cancel or change my ride?
Call the transportation service directly as soon as possible. Cancellation
policies vary by provider. Missing a scheduled ride (no-show) may affect
your ability to book future rides, and repeated no-shows can restrict
benefits with certain Medi-Cal plans.
Can I bring someone with me on my ride?
Many Medi-Cal transportation benefits allow one attendant - such as a parent,
guardian, or spouse - to ride along at no extra cost. Confirm this when booking.
Can I book a ride for a minor?
Some services allow this with written consent. For example, Kern Health
Care Transportation requires a Minor Consent for Transportation form.
Contact the provider directly to confirm their requirements.
What if I don’t have Medi-Cal?
If you have insurance, contact your plan to find out if transportation
benefits are included. You can also use services that offer private-pay
options, including Ridgecrest Medical Transport, local taxis, and rideshare apps.
Page Disclaimer - This information is provided for reference only and does not constitute
a referral, endorsement, or guarantee of service. Contact information,
hours, service areas, and eligibility requirements are subject to change
without notice - please confirm all details directly with each provider
before scheduling. Ridgecrest Regional Hospital is not responsible for
the availability, quality, or cost of third-party transportation services
listed on this page.
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