8801 Fast Park Dr Suite 
Overview of Dialysis Transportation in Durham
Select a transport method for dialysis treatment. Most patients require transportation three times per week. Consistent attendance is mandatory for medical stability. Compare the four primary options available in Durham, NC:
- Family or Self-Driving
- Public Paratransit (GoDurham ACCESS)
- Medicaid NEMT Brokers
- Private NEMT Services (Ivel 7 Medical Transport)
Use the following data to determine the optimal service for your specific requirements.
Option 1: Family or Self-Driving
Description
The patient operates a personal vehicle or relies on a family member for transport to and from the clinic.
Functional Analysis
- Cost: Low. Requires fuel and vehicle maintenance only.
- Reliability: High, provided the vehicle is maintained and the driver is available.
- Flexibility: Immediate. No scheduling with third parties required.
Limitations
- Caregiver Burnout: Transporting a patient three times weekly is a significant time commitment.
- Post-Treatment Fatigue: Dialysis causes physical exhaustion. Driving after a session is often unsafe for the patient.
- Lack of Equipment: Standard passenger vehicles cannot accommodate non-folding wheelchairs or stretchers.
Option 2: GoDurham ACCESS (Public Paratransit)
Description
Durham’s public paratransit service provides shared-ride transportation for individuals with disabilities.
Functional Analysis
- Cost: Currently free through June 2026. Verify future pricing at GoDurham ACCESS.
- Service Area: Anywhere within the City of Durham or within 3/4 mile of a fixed-route bus.
- Safety: Vehicles are wheelchair accessible.
Limitations
- Scheduling Windows: Passengers must be ready for pickup within a specific window. Expect wait times.
- Shared Rides: Multiple stops for other passengers occur during the trip. This increases total travel time.
- Eligibility Requirements: Requires a formal application and functional assessment. Processing takes up to 21 business days.
Option 3: Medicaid NEMT Brokers
Description
Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) for Medicaid members. Managed by the Durham County Department of Social Services (DSS) or managed care plans like Healthy Blue or Alliance Health.
Functional Analysis
- Cost: $0 for eligible Medicaid members.
- Destinations: Covered for medical appointments only, including dialysis.
Limitations
- Broker Assignment: You cannot choose the specific company. The broker assigns a local taxi or van service.
- Reliability Fluctuations: Vendor quality varies. Late pickups are a common reported issue in broker-managed systems.
- Strict Rules: Rides must be booked several days in advance. Last-minute changes are difficult to accommodate.
Option 4: Private NEMT (Ivel 7 Medical Transport)
Description
Professional, door-through-door medical transportation. This service is specifically designed for recurring medical needs such as dialysis.
Functional Analysis
- Reliability: Highest. Vehicles are dedicated to your specific appointment time.
- Care Level: Trained staff assist the patient from inside their home to inside the clinic.
- Equipment: Specialized vehicles for wheelchair and stretcher transport.
- Cleanliness: Vehicles undergo rigorous sanitation protocols after every trip.
Limitations
- Cost: This is a paid service. Payment is typically out-of-pocket or via specific facility contracts.
Comparison Table: Dialysis Transport Options
Action Plan: Choosing Your Service
Follow these steps to secure transportation:
- Assess Mobility: Determine if the patient requires a wheelchair or stretcher. If yes, eliminate standard family vehicles and most taxis.
- Verify Eligibility: Contact Durham County DSS at (919) 560-1551 to check Medicaid NEMT eligibility.
- Apply for Paratransit: Complete the Regional Paratransit Application if using public transit. Submit Part B to your physician.
- Evaluate Sustainability: Determine if family members can maintain a 3x/week schedule long-term.
- Book Private Transport: If reliability and specialized care are the priorities, Book Now with a private provider to ensure a consistent schedule.
Critical Factors for Dialysis Patients
1. Wait Times After Treatment
Dialysis sessions last 3–4 hours. Patients are often weak afterward. Minimize wait times to prevent physical distress. Public and broker-managed services often have 30–60 minute wait windows. Private services provide immediate pickup.
2. Vehicle Hygiene
Patients with kidney failure have suppressed immune systems. Ensure your transport provider follows CDC guidelines for medical vehicle sanitation. Review our guide on fixing dialysis transportation issues for more details.
3. Emergency Readiness
Drivers should be trained in Basic Life Support (BLS) or First Aid. Inquire about driver certifications before booking.
Conclusion
Compare these services based on your budget and medical necessity. Dialysis is a long-term commitment. The transportation choice impacts patient health and family well-being. For professional assistance in Durham, contact Ivel 7 Medical Transport.