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Definition
A broad category referring to anyone accompanying the member. This can refer to a medical escort(nurse/EMT provided by the vendor) or a personal escort (family member/guardian provided by the member).
Overview
Why it Matters
Clarifying who the extra person is determines billing. A family member (Escort) usually rides for free but cannot be billed for. A staff member (Attendant) is billable.
How it Works
The trip ticket will list "passenger count: 2" (1 Member + 1 Escort). The driver must verify if the second person is a family member or a required medical staffer.
Code Comparison
Comparison: Personal Escort vs. Provider Attendant
Personal Escort: A family member riding along to help the patient at the destination (Not billable).
Provider Attendant: An employee in the vehicle to help the patient during the ride (Billable).
Common Questions
- Billing Errors: Billing an "Attendant" fee when the passenger actually just brought their spouse (Escort).
- Capacity: Forgetting to account for the escort's seat, resulting in a vehicle that is over-capacity.
- Clearly distinguish "Escort (Family)" vs "Attendant (Staff)" in the dispatch software fields.
- Confirm escort presence 24 hours prior to ensure seat availability.
Sources
Washington State Health Care Authority - NEMT Billing Guide