‘Getthere’ offers transportation services to those in need

Residents in Broome, Tioga, Chenango, Delaware, and Otsego Counties have access to an expanded range of transportation services, thanks to the Getthere program. Aimed at helping people maintain independence and access critical services, Getthere provides rides to medical appointments, emergency food access, and employment, ensuring that people can continue to live independently while receiving the services they need.

Getthere, a program of the Rural Health Network of SCNY, Inc., offers multiple features designed to meet the needs of residents, including the following.

Transportation Assistance: Anyone can call the Getthere call center at (855) 373-4040 Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. to get help securing rides for various destinations, including medical appointments.

Connection to Care: Assists individuals without Medicaid in accessing healthcare services, such as prescription pick-up and delivery.

Transportation to Employment: Getthere helps navigate transportation options and create a plan to get people to and from work.

Travel Training: Getthere offers travel training to empower people with the knowledge to use transportation safely and independently.

MAS Navigation: For those with Medicaid, Getthere assists with setting up rides through Medical Answering Services (MAS), the Medicaid non-emergency transportation provider.

“We understand that reliable transportation is a vital service for people to maintain their independence and quality of life,” said Nick Cecconi, Director of Getthere. “Through this program, we are helping to eliminate barriers to healthcare and essential services. Our goal is to ensure that no one is left behind due to transportation challenges.”

While contributions toward transportation costs are appreciated to sustain the program, Getthere stresses that no one will be denied service due to an inability or unwillingness to pay for services.

In addition, Getthere is seeking volunteer drivers to assist their neighbors. Volunteers can drive their own vehicles, set their own hours, and receive reimbursement for mileage at the 2025 rate of 70 cents per mile. Secondary insurance coverage is also provided to volunteers.

The Rural Health Network of SCNY, Inc. administers the initiative, working to enhance access to healthcare and essential services for residents, particularly in rural areas across the region.

For more information about Getthere, or to learn how to volunteer, community members can call (855) 373-4040 or visit the Rural Health Network of SCNY website at https://rhnscny.org.