How to get a parent to medical appointments when they can’t drive
Mom or Dad can no longer drive safely, but the calendar is still full of appointments. Rideshare and taxis often fall short on hands-on help or wheelchair access. Non-emergency medical transportation fills that gap.
Updated October 2026
1. Decide what kind of ride they need
Judge by your parent’s worst mobility day, not their best. If they need a wheelchair some days, book a wheelchair van.
Ambulatory
Walks, perhaps with a cane or walker, but needs a hand in and out of the vehicle.
Wheelchair van
Rides seated in a manual or power chair. The van needs a ramp or lift and tie-downs.
Stretcher
Can’t sit up for the trip and must stay lying down or reclined, usually with a two-person crew.
Curbside isn’t enough for many seniors. Curbside pickup assumes your parent can get down the driveway and into the car alone. If they need help out of a chair, down the front steps or through the clinic door, ask for door-to-door or door-through-door service.
2. Interview the provider
Treat the first call like a job interview. Ask:
- Are drivers background-checked and trained in CPR and first aid?
- Is the service door-through-door, door-to-door or curbside only?
- What happens if the appointment runs long or the doctor reschedules?
- Can I ride along?
Our printable checklist covers the rest.
3. Work out who pays
Medicaid covers rides to covered medical care when your parent has no other way to get there. Some Medicare Advantage plans include a set number of rides a year. Original Medicare doesn’t cover routine rides. Everyone else pays the provider directly. See who pays for medical rides and what private-pay rides cost.
4. Book and confirm
Give the pickup address and unit number, the appointment time and how long it should take, the kind of help needed, and any equipment such as oxygen or a walker. Confirm the day before.
To find providers near your parent, pick your city: Phoenix, Tampa, Orlando, Boise, Sacramento or Salt Lake City.
Medical emergency? Call 911. This guide is general information, not medical, legal or insurance advice. Rules vary by plan; confirm with the rider’s plan.