Board OKs Uber and Lyft rides for enrolled MIH patients using grant funds

The Crown Point Board of Public Works and Safety voted to authorize the use of ride-hail services for enrolled Mobile Integrated Health (MIH) patients who need transportation to medical appointments or pharmacies.

Chief described the program’s rationale: many MIH patients are elderly or lack family support and cannot reliably reach appointments. "One of the big gaps we're finding for our citizens is they just don't have the means to go to the doctors or go to the pharmacy," Chief said. Staff emphasized that the service will be available only to patients enrolled in the MIH program and that some vendors can accommodate wheelchairs and larger vehicles.

Alex, the city attorney, said he reviewed the vendors' terms and conditions and saw no legal concerns. Chief said the city will use MIH grant funds to pay for rides when patients cannot do so themselves and noted the program should reduce time paramedics spend driving patients in department vehicles.

The board approved the action by voice vote. City staff said they will set a policy defining eligibility and payment rules before broad rollout.