San Diego MTS Increases Efficiencies & Reduces Paratransit Costs through In-Person Eligibility Assessments

Historically, MTS had deployed an ADA eligibility process that was application-based and complemented by phone interviews. Following a competitive bidding process in 2016, MTS selected MTM Transit as its new eligibility certification partner. Together, using MTM’s proven mobility management model, MTM Transit and MTS transformed the eligibility process into a 100% in-person assessment model.

Access ADA paratransit services are a safety net for passengers in the San Diego area who are unable to utilize MTS’s fixed route bus and trolley services due to a limiting disability. The new in-person assessment model helps MTS ensure that only truly eligible passengers are certified to use the program. We hold all applicants to the same baseline standards for eligibility, which safeguards that eligibility decisions are fair and unbiased.

Under the model, every applicant completes a thorough, multi-step evaluation process that allows MTM Transit’s Mobility Assessment Evaluators to gather as much relevant information as possible about their conditions and limitations. The process begins with the initial application, and then flows into an in-person meeting, where the Evaluator interviews the applicant and observes how they are able to access transit services. When necessary, the Evaluator conducts a Mini Mental Status Examination (MMSE) to determine the applicant’s cognitive abilities. The Evaluator also collects supplemental information like medical professional verification, fixed route utilization history, and video footage to help inform their decision. Based on the findings, the Evaluator makes an eligibility determination. If an applicant disagrees with the decision, they have the right to an appeal. All appeals result in a more in-depth in-person functional assessment process to further examine the applicant’s physical abilities.