County continues transportation for low income

Each year, Ocean County's transportation system known as Ocean Ride provides medical transportation to economically disadvantaged residents being served by the Ocean County Board of Social Services.

"We are getting ready to renew our agreement with the Board of Social Services to make certain we continue this service and provide those who are less fortunate with the assistance they need," said Freeholder Director Gerry P. Little, who serves as liaison to the Board of Social Services and Ocean Ride. "This service is not only beneficial but it is cost effective."

The transportation program is a federal requirement of Medicaid and funded by the federal government.

Under the agreement, Medicaid clients are provided with transportation for medical visits to doctors, dentists, mental health and substance abuse rehabilitation. The Board of Social Services reimburses the county $19 per trip for a maximum amount not to exceed $48,000, under the agreement.

Little noted the typical cost for a taxi provided by the Board of Social Services to transport these clients is about $59 round trip in comparison to a daily Ocean Ride cost of $19.

"There is a significant savings for Ocean Ride to provide this service," Little said. "This agreement highlights the cooperation among county agencies to provide the best and most cost effective services to all of our residents."

Little noted that Ocean Ride provides the service to about 112 clients of the Board of Social Services resulting in approximately 2,000 passenger trips a year. The clients are provided the service after being screened by the Board of Social Services.

The Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders is expected to approve the agreement at its Jan. 18 meeting.