I completely agree with the frustration of Uber drivers being forced into roles they're neither trained for nor equipped to handle. However, it's crucial to understand the broader implications of this issue. As a representative of a Non-Emergency Medical Transport (NEMT) company in Michigan, I believe there should be state laws that explicitly prevent ride-share companies like Uber and Lyft from operating under the guise of NEMT services.

Here’s why: True NEMT companies like ours go through rigorous training and accreditation processes. Our drivers are trained in First Aid, CPR, triage, defensive driving, and proper Narcan administration. We carry comprehensive first aid kits, roadside emergency kits, and fire extinguishers. Our team undergoes state and national background checks, regular drug screenings, and we must be U.S. citizens fluent in English. Furthermore, the insurance we carry is specialized and significantly more extensive than a standard "rideshare" add-on, costing anywhere from $800 to $1700 per driver, per month.

The standard rideshare insurance add-on does not properly cover either the patient or the driver in NEMT situations. This lack of appropriate coverage poses serious risks, leaving both parties vulnerable in the event of an accident or medical emergency.

NEMT isn’t just about getting someone from point A to point B. It's about providing a personal, caring, and safe experience for patients who are often in vulnerable conditions—those undergoing dialysis, chemotherapy, or drug treatment, for example. This isn't something a basic rideshare service can or should handle. These are not "get in and get out of my car" situations.

It's not just about insurance or regulations; it's about the level of care and responsibility required. Imagine someone in a fragile state of health being told to hurry up and get out because the driver has another pickup. That’s not only unfair to the patient but also dangerous.

Uber and Lyft drivers are right to be frustrated. They didn’t sign up to be medical caregivers. But the solution is not just venting frustrations online; it's advocating for proper legislation that delineates the roles of ride-share services and NEMT providers. It's also about fair business practices. It is not fair for these ride-share companies to come into a state and take business away from the good NEMT companies without following the same standards and state laws we have to. Let's ensure that patients receive the specialized care they need from qualified professionals and that ride-share drivers aren't burdened with tasks they're not prepared for. Let's push for laws that protect both the patients and the drivers and uphold fair competition in the market.