R
Definition
A transportation request that includes transport from an origin to a destination (outbound) and a return transport back to the origin (return) on the same date of service.
Overview
Why it Matters
Round trips double the efficiency requirements. If a driver performs the first leg but is late for the second, the entire "Round Trip" experience is rated poorly by the member.
How it Works
The system schedules Leg A (Home -> Clinic) and typically places Leg B (Clinic -> Home) in a "Will-Call" status or a scheduled time slot, depending on if the appointment duration is known.
Code Comparison
Comparison: Round Trip vs. Multi-Load
A Round Trip is one member going A->B and B->A. A Multi-Load is one vehicle carrying two different members simultaneously (Member A and Member B in the same van).
Common Questions
- Rigid Scheduling: Scheduling the return leg too tight to the appointment end time, causing driver wait time.
- No-Show confusion: If a member No-Shows the outbound leg, the return leg must be manually cancelled to avoid a "ghost" pickup attempt.
- Use "Will-Call" for the return leg on medical appointments with unpredictable durations.
- Automate the cancellation of the return leg if the outbound leg is marked "Client No-Show."
Sources
Minnesota Dept of Human Services NEMT Overview