STUDIES HAVE SHOWN THAT TRANSPORTATION BARRIERS ARE DIRECTLY LINKED TO REDUCED USE OF REGULAR OUTPATIENT CARE , INCREASED EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT VISITS AND HIGHER READMISSION RATES .
F E A T U R E
STUDIES HAVE SHOWN THAT TRANSPORTATION BARRIERS ARE DIRECTLY LINKED TO REDUCED USE OF REGULAR OUTPATIENT CARE , INCREASED EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT VISITS AND HIGHER READMISSION RATES .
address this issue , we risk further disrupting the continuity of care , leading to poorer health outcomes and even higher costs for individuals and third-party payers .”
Studies have shown that transportation barriers are directly linked to reduced use of regular outpatient care , increased emergency department visits and higher readmission rates . These factors not only contribute to elevated healthcare costs but also strain clinic revenue , staff productivity , and create scheduling and operational stress .
Kerico urges healthcare providers , policymakers and community leaders to prioritise investments in non-emergency medical transportation ( NEMT ) as a costeffective solution to mitigate the impending crisis . By providing reliable transportation , communities can significantly improve healthcare accessibility and reduce the financial burden on the healthcare system . Research indicates that for every dollar spent on NEMT , US $ 11 is saved in long-term care .
“ As a nation , we must act swiftly to address this impending healthcare crisis ,” added Ochs . “ Investing in reliable non-emergency medical transportation is not just a matter of convenience ; it ’ s a critical step in ensuring equitable access to healthcare , improving patient outcomes and reducing the financial strain on our healthcare system . By prioritising NEMT , we can build a more resilient and patient-centric healthcare infrastructure that serves the needs of every individual in our communities .”
In conclusion , the concerns raised by Kerico underscore the evolving landscape of outpatient care , where balancing
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