HB 5356, An Act Concerning Nonemergency Medical Transportation

TESTIMONY OF THE CONNECTICUT HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION
SUBMITTED TO THE HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE

Tuesday, March 3, 2026

The Connecticut Hospital Association (CHA) appreciates this opportunity to submit testimony concerning HB 5356, An Act Concerning Nonemergency Medical Transportation.  CHA supports the bill.

Connecticut hospitals make our state stronger by delivering nationally recognized, world-class care, supporting jobs and economic growth, and serving communities across Connecticut.  Every day, hospitals improve access, affordability, and health equity — providing care to all patients regardless of ability to pay.  At the same time, hospitals invest in their workforce and local communities, even as they navigate significant financial and federal challenges.

Access to reliable nonemergency medical transportation (NEMT) is important for Medicaid beneficiaries to obtain needed healthcare services.  For many patients — especially those who must travel significant distances to reach hospitals, specialty providers, behavioral health services, or follow-up care — transportation is often a determining factor in whether care is received at all.

In parts of the state where provider networks are geographically dispersed and public transit options are limited transportation systems face unique pressures.  When the transportation system is strained, patients experience delays, missed appointments, and avoidable escalations in care that can lead to emergency department visits or hospitalizations.

HB 5356 aims to address several structural factors that contribute to these access challenges.

HB 5356 (1) requires the Department of Social Services (DSS) to review NEMT reimbursement rates at least annually and ensure that rates are adequate to maintain a sufficient pool of drivers; (2) allows DSS to have flexibility in structuring service delivery; and (3) requires DSS to consider the impact of NEMT contracts on emergency ambulance primary service areas and volunteer ambulance services.  In communities that rely heavily on these services, careful coordination is essential to avoid unintended consequences that could affect emergency response capacity.

Strengthening the NEMT framework by ensuring thoughtful implementation will improve access to care, reduce missed appointments, and support better health outcomes. 

CHA supports this bill as it advances a more sustainable and responsive transportation system and aims to ensure that Medicaid beneficiaries in every region of the state can reach the care they need.

Thank you for your consideration of our position.  For additional information, contact CHA Government Relations at (203) 294-7301.