D
Operations

Door-to-Door

Definition
A service level where the driver escorts the passenger from the door of the pickup location (e.g., house front door) to the door of the drop-off location (e.g., clinic entrance).

Overview

Why it Matters

Standard for wheelchair patients or seniors. It reduces liability by ensuring the patient doesn't fall while walking up the driveway.

How it Works

The driver parks, gets out, goes to the door, assists the passenger to the vehicle, loads them, and reverses the process at the destination.

Code Comparison

Comparison: Door-to-Door vs. Curb-to-Curb

Door-to-Door: "I will help you walk to the car."

Curb-to-Curb: "I will wait for you at the curb."

Common Questions

  • Time Management: Drivers failing to account for the extra 5u201310 minutes it takes to walk a slow-moving patient to the door.
  • Leaving the Vehicle: In some urban areas, leaving the vehicle unattended to go to a door can risk a parking ticket or theft.
  • Drivers should always maintain line-of-sight with the vehicle if possible.
  • Charge a premium (or ensure higher reimbursement) for this service level vs. Curb-to-Curb.

Sources

NCMM - Community Transportation glossary