Ala. Admin. Code r. 560-X-18-.20

Current through Register Vol. 42, No. 10, July 31, 2024
Section 560-X-18-.20 - NET Escorts
(1) An escort is defined as an individual, other than an employee of a Transporter, whose presence is required to assist a recipient during transport and while at the place of treatment. An escort is typically a relative, guardian, or volunteer. Only one escort is covered per recipient in need and there must exist an identifiable need for the escort. Escort services are utilized in-state or out-of-state for recipients over 21 years of age only when a physician's statement documents that an escort is required because the recipient is blind, deaf, intellectually disabled, or mentally ill or physically handicapped to such a degree personal assistance is necessary.
(2) Escorts are allowed for recipients under the age of 21.
(3) The Alabama Medicaid Agency must obtain a medical certification statement from the individual requesting an escort for recipients age 21 and over before reimbursement can be made. The certification must document that the recipient is physically or mentally challenged, such as:
(a) blind;
(b) deaf;
(c) intellectually disabled;
(d) mentally ill; or
(e) physically handicapped to such a degree that personal assistance is necessary.
(4) Escort services for commercial bus, train, and airplane transportation are reimbursed for the actual cost of the bus, train, or plane ticket.
(5) Meals and lodging, when overnight travel is necessary, for the recipient and one escort when an escort is required and authorized. Receipts or confirmation of expenses are required before reimbursement can be made. In no case will reimbursement exceed $50.00 per person, per day.

Ala. Admin. Code r. 560-X-18-.20

New Rule: Filed February 7, 1996; effective March 14, 1996. Amended: Filed August 11, 2010; effective September 15, 2010.
Amended by Alabama Administrative Monthly Volume XLII, Issue No. 04, January 31, 2024, eff. 3/16/2024.

Author: Angela Johnson-Groves, Associate Director, Transportation Unit

Statutory Authority: State Plan; 42 C.F.R. § 431.53; Title XIX, Social Security Act.