Patient Information Sheet
A one-page handout designed for patients who are new to medical transportation. Written in plain language with large, readable fonts. Print and distribute to patients at discharge, intake, or during case management visits.
What Is Non-Emergency Medical Transportation?
Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) is a ride service that takes you to and from medical appointments when you cannot drive yourself. NEMT is different from an ambulance — it is for scheduled appointments, not emergencies. Dream Care Rides provides NEMT with trained drivers, ADA-accessible vehicles, and door-through-door assistance to help you get to your healthcare appointments safely.
What Dream Care Rides Provides
Ambulatory (Sedan/SUV)
For patients who can walk and get in and out of a vehicle on their own or with minimal help. A comfortable sedan or SUV with a trained driver.
Wheelchair (ADA Van)
For patients who use a wheelchair. Our vans have hydraulic ramps or lifts. The driver secures your wheelchair and assists you into the building.
Stretcher (Ambulette)
For patients who cannot sit upright and must travel lying down. Two trained attendants transport you on a gurney from bed to bed or room to room.
How to Schedule Your Ride
Call (708) 505-6994
Tell our team your name, appointment date, pickup address, destination, and the type of ride you need (ambulatory, wheelchair, or stretcher). You can also book online at dreamcarerides.com/booking.
Get your price and confirmation
We quote an upfront price before your trip. No hidden fees. You receive a confirmation with your driver's estimated arrival time.
Your driver arrives and assists you
A background-checked driver picks you up at your door, helps you to the vehicle, and assists you into the medical facility at your destination.
What to Expect on Ride Day
Your driver calls to let you know they are on the way.
The driver comes to your door (or curb, depending on service level). They help you to the vehicle and make sure you are comfortable.
The driver assists you into the medical facility and confirms you are checked in.
If you booked a round trip, the driver either waits or returns at your requested pickup time. Call (708) 505-6994 when you are ready.
Pricing
Dream Care Rides quotes an upfront price before every trip. Here are our standard rates for Illinois:
| Service | Starting Base (per leg) | Per Mile |
|---|---|---|
| Ambulatory (Sedan/SUV) | $50–$60 | $3.00/mi after the first 3 miles |
| Wheelchair (ADA Van) | $60–$70 | $3.50/mi after the first 3 miles |
| Stretcher (Ambulette) | $350–$400 | $6.00/mi after the first 5 miles |
Base rates are per one-way leg; a round trip is two legs. Flat surcharges: weekends +$50 per leg, after-hours pickups +$50–$300 per leg, wait time $15/15 min (first 15 min free), oxygen +$25, stair chair +$40; major holidays add a fee shown before you book.
Payment Options
Dream Care Rides offers competitive private pay rates with upfront pricing and no hidden fees. Medicaid accepted in select service areas — call us to check availability.
To learn about pricing or check Medicaid availability, call us at (708) 505-6994 or visit dreamcarerides.com/private-pay for more information.
Important Phone Numbers
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I schedule my ride?
Schedule at least 24 hours before your appointment for the best availability. Same-day rides are available for ambulatory and wheelchair transport. Stretcher transport may require 24–48 hours advance notice.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
Call (708) 505-6994 as soon as possible to cancel or reschedule. There is no cancellation fee if you notify us at least 2 hours before your scheduled pickup time.
Can a family member ride with me?
Yes. One companion can ride with you at no additional charge on ambulatory and wheelchair trips. Stretcher transport companion policies depend on vehicle capacity. Let our dispatch team know when you schedule.
What if my appointment runs longer than expected?
If you booked a round trip, call (708) 505-6994 when you are ready for pickup. Wait time is $15 per 15 minutes after the first 15 minutes, which are free, while the driver is on site. For unpredictable appointments, we recommend scheduling a separate return trip.
Do I need to tip the driver?
Tips are not required. Dream Care Rides drivers are compensated for their work. However, tips are always appreciated if you feel your driver provided excellent service.
Is Dream Care Rides available on weekends and holidays?
Yes. Dream Care Rides operates 7 days a week including weekends and holidays. Weekend rides add +$50 per leg, and major holidays add a fee shown before you book.
Dream Care Rides • 20000 Governors Dr Suite 103H, Olympia Fields, IL 60461 • NPI #1033989991
(708) 505-6994 • dreamcarerides.com
Questions About This Sheet?
Our team is happy to customize this handout for your facility or answer any questions about our services.