TRANSPORTATION

TRANSPORTATION A. Definition and Purpose Transportation – the traveling of eligible older individuals to and from community resources for the purpose of obtaining needed services or goods. Transportation is an essential part of the community infrastructure that individuals need to gain access to the goods, services, and social contacts that support their day-to-day existence and quality of life. The purpose of transportation is to (1) maintain the independence of older adults as long as possible by promoting access to available services in the community; (2) assist older individuals in maintaining mobility; (3) delay premature institutionalization through the provision of travel to obtain needed services or goods. B. Eligibility Anyone 60 years of age and older who is not a resident in a longterm care facility are eligible for transportation services C. Unit of Service A unit of service is a one way trip to a designated location. D. Minimum Program Requirements All clients are to be entered into the State Approved Client Tracking System. If a client is screened using a paper form, that client should be entered into the system no later than 10 working days from the screening. All service providers offering transportation services through a contractual agreement with an area agency on aging must adhere to the following requirements: 1. Service Activities Transportation shall be provided for the following purposes: a. Medical and/or dental treatment b. Social service and other related agencies/functions c. Personal care needs d. Hospice care e. Foster care/adult day care services f. Other applicable services based on needs 2. Location of Service Transportation service is initiated at a client’s location and transported to a designated location. 3. Access to Service The client may enter the service system at any point through appropriate referral. 4. Delivery Characteristics a. Each client record will contain the following information where appropriate: 1) Health, medical information indicating any impairments; 2) Screening/intake form (required form); 3) Documentation of services provided; and 4) Authorization releases, where appropriate. b. Transportation shall be available a minimum of five days a week, preferably between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. c. All drivers shall have a safe driver record, and commercial driver’s license, as required by the Mississippi Safety Patrol. d. All vehicles must be maintained in a safe and clean condition. e. Written policies and procedures regarding accidents, traffic violations and vehicle safety and maintenance shall be maintained. f. When utilizing the service, each older person shall be given an opportunity to voluntarily contribute to the cost of the service. 5. Staffing a. All transportation service providers must designate a person who is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the transportation service. b. There must be an adequate number of staff to accomplish the purpose of the service. c. All prospective transportation staff members shall obtain a signed statement from a licensed physician acting within the scope of the physician’s practice that states that the driver has no medical or physical condition, including an incurable vision impairment, that may impair safe driving, passenger assistance, emergency treatment, or the health and welfare of a consumer or the general public before providing the first service. d. The driver must take and pass a drug and alcohol tests. e. Volunteers used in the transportation service shall be trained and meet minimum requirements established by the provider. f. All drivers must be trained in basic first aid, emergency procedures and defensive driving before being allowed to carry passengers. 6. Prohibited Service Activities a. Operating a vehicle under the influence of any substance that impairs his/her ability to operate the vehicle. b. Personal use of vehicles.