NEMT for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) — including intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, and other developmental conditions — have the same healthcare needs as the general population and often have additional medical needs requiring frequent specialist appointments. Yet access to appropriate transportation is one of the most significant barriers to healthcare for this population.
Delta Medical Transportation provides respectful, patient, and trained transport for individuals with IDD throughout New Jersey. Our drivers receive specific training for working with people who may experience anxiety about new situations, need extra time, or communicate differently. Contact us to discuss your family member's needs, or visit our service area page.
NJ Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) Transportation Funding
For adults with IDD who are enrolled in NJ DDD services, transportation funding is available through several program categories:
Community Care Program
Adults enrolled in the NJ DDD Community Care Program may have transportation to medical appointments funded as a service within their approved budget. The support coordinator (formerly "case manager") manages the individual's service plan and can authorize transportation services from approved vendors.
Supports Program
Some DDD consumers are enrolled in the Supports Program, which also includes transportation as a fundable service category for medical appointments.
Community Living Arrangements (Group Homes)
Individuals residing in DDD-funded group homes may have medical transportation coordinated through the residential provider. The group home operator typically works with approved transportation vendors for resident medical appointments.
NJ Medicaid (NJ FamilyCare) Coverage
Many individuals with IDD are enrolled in NJ FamilyCare (Medicaid), which covers NEMT to all medically necessary appointments. Children with IDD are covered from birth through 21. Adults with IDD who meet income and disability criteria maintain Medicaid coverage throughout adulthood.
The NEMT benefit through Medicaid is coordinated through the member's MCO. The parent, guardian, or support staff member calls the MCO's member services line to arrange authorized transportation. For individuals whose MCO uses a transportation broker, trips are arranged through the broker (such as ModivCare) and assigned to credentialed NEMT providers.
Autism-Specific Transportation Considerations
For individuals on the autism spectrum, transportation can be a source of significant anxiety. Transitions, new people, unfamiliar vehicles, and sensory experiences in the transport environment can be challenging. Delta Medical Transportation addresses these concerns by:
- Consistent driver assignment: Where scheduling allows, we assign the same driver for recurring trips so the individual builds familiarity and trust
- Pre-trip coordination: We work with families and support staff to understand the individual's preferences, communication style, and potential triggers
- Sensory accommodations: We can adjust radio volume, temperature, and lighting in the vehicle to minimize sensory overwhelm
- Patience and respect: Our drivers allow extra time for boarding and disembarking, never rush, and interact with the individual — not just the accompanying support person
- Communication flexibility: Whether an individual uses verbal speech, an AAC device, sign language, or picture symbols, our drivers are trained to work with diverse communication styles
Group Home and Supported Living Transport
Delta Medical Transportation works as a transport partner for group homes and supported living programs throughout New Jersey. We can establish corporate accounts with residential providers, coordinate standing orders for multiple residents, and bill through DDD program funding or Medicaid as appropriate. Residential program administrators are encouraged to contact us to discuss account setup.
Behaviors That May Affect Transport
Some individuals with IDD may exhibit behaviors during transport that require driver awareness — including vocalization, repetitive movements, or resistance to seatbelts. Before booking for a new patient, families and support coordinators are encouraged to share relevant behavioral information so we can prepare the driver appropriately and discuss whether a support person should accompany the individual during initial trips.
NJ Resources for Families of People with IDD
- The Arc of New Jersey — advocacy, resources, and support for individuals with IDD and their families across NJ
- Autism New Jersey (Autism NJ) — resources specifically for families and providers supporting individuals with autism in NJ
- NJ Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI) — transportation resources for individuals with combined visual and developmental disabilities
- NJ DDD Regional Offices — for enrollment, service planning, and support coordinator assignment
Frequently Asked Questions
My adult child with Down syndrome is not enrolled in DDD. Can they still get NEMT through Medicaid?
Yes. If your family member is enrolled in NJ FamilyCare (Medicaid), they can access NEMT through their MCO regardless of DDD enrollment. DDD enrollment is a separate process that provides additional funded services. Contact your MCO's member services line to arrange Medicaid-covered transportation.
Can a support worker or job coach accompany my family member during transport?
Yes. One escort rides at no additional charge in our vehicles. Support workers, job coaches, and DSPs (direct support professionals) routinely accompany our IDD passengers. Please note the escort at the time of booking so we can confirm appropriate vehicle seating.
My family member with autism does not want strangers in their personal space. How do Delta's drivers handle this?
Our drivers are trained to follow the individual's lead regarding physical contact and personal space. The driver will introduce themselves, explain what they are doing before touching the wheelchair or assisting with boarding, and proceed at the individual's pace. Please share specific preferences (e.g., no unsolicited touch, specific boarding procedure) when booking so the driver is informed in advance.
How do I enroll my family member with IDD in NJ DDD services?
Contact the NJ Division of Developmental Disabilities through the NJ Department of Human Services. DDD eligibility requires a diagnosis of a qualifying developmental disability originating before age 22, a NJ resident and US citizen/qualified immigrant, and demonstration of functional limitations. The Arc of NJ and Autism NJ can provide enrollment guidance.
Does Delta provide transportation to supported employment sites?
Transportation to supported employment sites is typically not covered as NEMT (which is limited to medical appointments). However, DDD-funded transportation may cover some community-based activities. For employment transportation specifically, contact your family member's support coordinator regarding appropriate funding streams.