Transportation broker company Modivcare, with a pending contract to handle all MaineCare rides, is facing complaints from vulnerable riders who claim they are being left at appointments and denied rides without proper documentation. The company, valued at over $300 million, operates in 20 states and is the largest non-emergency medical transportation broker in the nation.
Maine residents like Laur Laughlin, who struggles with autism and ADHD, have had multiple ride requests denied by Modivcare, affecting their access to necessary medical appointments. Delores Garcia, a retired union worker with disabilities, had a terrifying experience with a Modivcare driver and has filed complaints against the company.
Despite claims of low complaint levels and on-time performance, Modivcare users report being stranded or never picked up for appointments. The company’s Better Business Bureau profile has an F rating with numerous complaints. Subcontractor Sam Small acknowledges that some vulnerable riders may have to wait longer for pickups, leading to them being stranded.
Nationwide, Modivcare and its subcontractors have faced allegations of fraud, including overbilling Medicare and Medicaid. In Ohio, the company agreed to pay $3.75 million in a settlement over false claims, while in Florida, employees of a Modivcare-contracted company were arrested for fraud.
Maine residents like Laughlin feel let down by Modivcare and are resorting to alternative, time-consuming transportation methods to access medical care. The company’s failure to provide reliable and safe transportation services to vulnerable riders has raised concerns among users and advocates for improved services.
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Photo credit www.centralmaine.com