Horizon Health: Transforming Rural Transportation for Better Care
Episode Overview
Kyle shares the role of transportation in eliminating barriers to care in their medically assisted treatment program Insights into navigating a broker system and accessing Medicaid funding for transportation services Innovative approach of utilizing peer support specialists as drivers for sustainable funding and client support Discussion on the implementation of dynamic routing software, TripShot, to streamline transportation services Future plans of expanding transportation services to consortium members and prospects for program growth and development
Our transport unit, along with our driver arrived and they don't come to the door, they're indisposed, they're not at home. And then about an hour or two later, they call and say, hey, sorry, I missed the ride. Can you come and get me? So logistics has been a real challenge.
Ever thought about how tough it can be to get around in rural areas, especially when you need medical care? In this episode of 'Rural Roads', hosts Tim Rabolt and Isha Taylor-Kamara chat with Kyle Perkins and Tim Petro from Horizon Health in Kentucky. They dive into the nitty-gritty of tackling transportation challenges in their community. Kyle shares how they set up a medically assisted treatment program and how transportation was a game-changer in making healthcare accessible.
They talk about navigating the broker system and the hurdles of securing Medicaid funding for transport services. One of the coolest parts? They use peer support specialists as drivers, which not only keeps the funding sustainable but also gives clients much-needed emotional support during their trips. Plus, they’ve got this slick dynamic routing software called TripShot that makes organizing on-demand and fixed-route trips a breeze.
The conversation wraps up with exciting plans to expand these services to other consortium members, promising even more growth and development. If you’re curious about innovative solutions in rural healthcare or just love a good story of community resilience, this episode is a must-listen.