Getting to medical appointments is a critical need for many Medicare beneficiaries in New Mexico, especially those in rural areas. Several programs provide transportation assistance to seniors and people with disabilities across the state.
Medicare Advantage Transportation Benefits
Some Medicare Advantage plans in New Mexico offer transportation to and from medical appointments as a supplemental benefit. It may include a set number of one-way rides per year, ride-sharing services, or non-emergency medical transportation, and it varies by plan. Compare plans in your county.
Turquoise Care (Medicaid) Transportation
If you are enrolled in Turquoise Care (NM Medicaid), you have access to Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT). Your managed care organization (MCO) arranges rides to covered medical services at no cost to you. Contact your MCO to schedule a ride, typically 48–72 hours in advance.
Additional Transportation Resources
- Senior Center Transportation: Many county senior centers offer van or bus service for seniors to medical appointments, grocery stores, and social activities. Call your local senior center or the NM Aging and Long-Term Services Department at 1-800-432-2080.
- Area Agency on Aging: AAAs fund transportation services for residents 60 and older in most New Mexico counties.
- Veterans Transportation: The VA offers transportation assistance to VA medical facilities. Call 1-877-222-VETS (1-877-222-8387).
- ABQ RIDE (Albuquerque): Albuquerque's public transit system offers Sun Van paratransit service for people with disabilities. cabq.gov/transit
- NM Park & Ride: State-operated commuter bus services connecting communities across New Mexico.
Find Plans With Transportation Benefits
If transportation is a barrier to healthcare, some Medicare Advantage plans include rides to medical appointments. A licensed insurance agent can help you check which plans in your county include this benefit.