5 Qualities of Exceptional Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Drivers
Friday, August 1st, 2014Customers, colleagues and competitors have frequently asked me: “What qualities do you look for when recruiting NEMT drivers?” An excellent question that bears careful consideration. After all, exceptional employees are the most valuable asset of a company, right? Drivers are the front line employees of any transportation company, and they certainly are in an ideal position to create a positive or negative experience for the customer. Drivers usually provide our clients with their first and last impressions of us.
With all due consideration, I have attempted to list the 5 most important qualities that I seek when interviewing and evaluating our drivers:
1) A desire to contribute to the successful outcome of the client’s healing process
2) Highly customer service focused
3) Punctual, reliable and efficient
4) Works well independently, and as a team member
5) Impeccable driving record and safety awareness
Other qualities that could arguably be included in any top 5 list may be:
- Cleanliness regarding both personal and equipment. Nobody wants to enter a vehicle that is filthy or reeks of tobacco, food or coffee.
- Computer and GPS technology literate
- Familiarity with the local service area and destination facilities
- The ability to recognize potential problems before they arise, and take steps to avert them
To me, Item #1 pretty much sums it all up. I am of the opinion that if a driver has a genuine desire to contribute to the client’s healing process, all other desirable qualities will develop as a result.
At All Points Assisted Transportation, we believe that we are a key contributor in the total healing process for our NEMT clients. The satisfaction that an exceptional driver receives from each successful outcome for one of our clients, more than makes up for the stress, long hours, and high demands we as set upon them as supervisors and owners.