The broker is responsible for coordination, providing quality non-emergency transportation services and ongoing utilization monitoring. The State is responsible for providing a daily download of eligible beneficiaries for Tri-Met's use. Tri-Met is paid a flat rate per ride regardless of the type of service provided. This fee which includes administrative costs, is evaluated quarterly and adjusted periodically. As the Medicaid broker, Tri-Met tries to use its own fixed route bus system to provide service but also subcontracts with smaller, private operators to provide other modes of transportation.
Subcontractors negotiate separately approved fare structures.
Beneficiaries are provided information about the program at the time Medicaid eligibility is determined. A brochure details information regarding the availability of medical transportation for those who have no transportation resources available to them. In addition to the brochure, the beneficiaries' monthly Medical Care Identification Form also informs them of the transportation program. Beneficiaries contact the broker via a toll free number. A Customer Service Representative screens the ride request to determine the appropriate type of transportation and to assign the trip using the lowest cost appropriate provider.