There isn't a single, uniform mileage reimbursement rate that Medicaid pays per mile across all states. Medicaid programs are administered at the state level, and each state sets its own policies regarding transportation assistance for beneficiaries.
Understanding Medicaid Transportation Assistance
Medicaid provides Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) services to ensure beneficiaries can get to and from medical appointments. This service is a mandatory benefit under federal Medicaid law, but the specifics of how it's delivered and reimbursed vary significantly by state.
How Medicaid Transportation Typically Works:
- Direct Transportation Services: Many states contract with transportation providers (e.g., taxi services, vans, public transit) to arrange rides directly for beneficiaries. In these cases, Medicaid pays the transportation provider, not the individual directly for mileage.
- Mileage Reimbursement: Some state Medicaid programs or specific managed care organizations may offer direct mileage reimbursement to beneficiaries or their drivers for using a personal vehicle. However, these rates are determined at the state or local level and can differ. They are often set to cover gas, wear and tear, and sometimes a small administrative fee.
Differentiating from IRS Medical Mileage Deduction
It's important to distinguish between Medicaid's transportation assistance and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) medical mileage deduction. The IRS deduction allows taxpayers to deduct a certain amount per mile driven for medical purposes on their federal tax return if they itemize deductions and meet specific criteria.
For example, as of January 1, 2024, the standard IRS mileage rate for purposes related to medical expenses is 21 cents per mile. This rate is a tax deduction for individuals and is not a direct payment or reimbursement from Medicaid for your travel costs.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | IRS Medical Mileage Deduction (2024) | Medicaid Mileage Reimbursement (Varies by State) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Tax deduction for eligible medical travel | Ensuring access to non-emergency medical care |
| Rate | 21 cents per mile | Varies by state; no single federal rate |
| Recipient | Individual taxpayer (deducted from income) | Beneficiary (if offered directly) or contracted transportation provider |
| Payer | Individual taxpayer (reduces taxable income) | State Medicaid program or managed care organization |
How to Find Specific Medicaid Mileage Information
To determine the exact mileage reimbursement rates or transportation options available through Medicaid in your specific state, you should:
- Contact Your State Medicaid Agency: Visit your state's official Medicaid website or call their beneficiary services line. They can provide details on NEMT services and any direct mileage reimbursement programs.
- Contact Your Managed Care Plan: If you are enrolled in a Medicaid managed care plan, contact your plan directly. Many plans arrange transportation services for their members.
For further information on Medicaid benefits and eligibility, you can visit the official Medicaid.gov website.
