Wheelchair, Gurney Transportation, San Bernardino, Riverside

San Bernardino and Riverside Counties have experienced notable growth in their senior populations over recent years. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, as of July 1, 2023, Riverside County had a total population of 2,492,442, with individuals aged 65 and over comprising 15.7% of this population.  Similarly, San Bernardino County's population was estimated at 2,195,611, with seniors aged 65 and over accounting for 12.9%.

This demographic shift reflects a broader national trend of an aging population, underscoring the need for services tailored to senior citizens. The increasing number of seniors in these counties necessitates a closer examination of infrastructure and services, particularly in healthcare and transportation, to accommodate their unique needs.

As the senior population grows, so does the demand for specialized transportation services, including wheelchair and gurney transportation. Many seniors face mobility challenges due to age-related health conditions, making it essential to have reliable transportation options for hospital discharges, follow-up medical appointments, social engagements, and daily activities.

While specific data on the demand for wheelchair and stretcher transportation in San Bernardino County is limited, it is reasonable to infer that similar needs exist, given the comparable demographic trends. 

Healthcare facilities such as hospitals, emergency rooms, and skilled nursing facilities in San Bernardino and Riverside Counties are experiencing increased demand for wheelchair and gurney transportation services. This surge is attributed to the aging population, which often requires frequent medical attention and specialized transportation to accommodate mobility limitations.

Seniors who do not qualify for Medicaid benefits often face challenges in accessing affordable transportation services. In San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, the increasing senior population includes individuals who may not meet Medicaid eligibility criteria but still require assistance with transportation due to mobility issues.

These services are vital for seniors who do not have access to Medicaid-funded transportation, ensuring they can attend medical appointments and participate in community activities.

Specific data detailing the percentage of seniors on government assistance versus those not receiving such aid in San Bernardino and Riverside Counties is not readily available, but in Riverside County, 10.9% of the population lives in poverty, while in San Bernardino County, the figure is 13.5%.  While these percentages encompass all age groups, they suggest that a segment of the senior population may be experiencing financial challenges, potentially qualifying them for government assistance.  In Riverside County, 7.5% of individuals under age 65 have a disability, and in San Bernardino County, the rate is 7.9%.

Hospitals, emergency rooms, and medical centers face significant operational and financial challenges when they lack adequate wheelchair and stretcher transportation for discharged patients. Without reliable non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), patients who are medically cleared for discharge may be forced to stay overnight simply because they have no safe way to leave the facility. This not only leads to unnecessary bed occupancy, straining hospital capacity and reducing available space for incoming patients in need of urgent care, but it also creates financial losses, as hospitals typically cannot bill insurance or patients for extended stays that are not medically necessary. 

Additionally, prolonged stays increase the risk of hospital-acquired infections and patient dissatisfaction, further impacting the facility's overall efficiency and reputation. Ensuring that transportation services are readily available is crucial for optimizing patient flow, improving financial sustainability, and maintaining high-quality care.

The growing senior populations in Moreno Valley, San Bernardino & Riverside Counties underscore the escalating need for Inland Empire NEMT. Inland Empire NEMT continues to collaborate and partner with area hospitals, emergency rooms, and nursing facilities to increase accessibility while also working with various local agencies to strategies and raise awareness for increased support services.