PARATRANSIT SERVICES IN PHILADELPHIA

What is Paratransit Service?  

Paratransit is a specialized disability-friendly transport service designed to meet the needs of individuals who are unable to use regular public transit due to mobility challenges, disabilities, or health-related issues. Unlike traditional buses or trains, paratransit provides door-to-door service, offering a more personalized and accessible mode of transportation for those who require additional assistance.  

At Infina Health, we understand that mobility is a fundamental aspect of maintaining independence, and we are proud to provide paratransit services that are tailored to meet the unique needs of our passengers. Whether you have a permanent or temporary disability, are a senior, or need transportation due to a medical condition, paratransit is here to ensure you get where you need to go with ease and comfort.  

Key Features of Paratransit Services:  

1. Door-to-Door Paratransit Service 

Unlike traditional transit options that follow set routes, paratransit offers personalized, door-to-door service. A driver picks you up at your location and takes you directly to your destination, making the process easy, comfortable, and convenient.  

2. Accommodations for Mobility Devices 

ADA paratransit transport is specifically equipped to accommodate various mobility devices, including wheelchairs, scooters, and walkers. Our vehicles are outfitted with ramps or lifts, as well as securement systems, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the ride.  

3. Flexible Scheduling 

Paratransit transportation services are designed to be flexible. You can schedule a ride for any time you need it, whether it’s for medical appointments, work, social outings, or personal errands. This ensures that you don’t have to worry about availability and can always rely on us to meet your needs.  

4. Specialized Drivers 

Paratransit drivers are trained professionals who understand the importance of assistance and care. They are equipped to help passengers board and exit the vehicle, assist with securing mobility aids, and ensure a safe and comfortable journey.  

5. Accessible for All 

Paratransit isn’t just for individuals with permanent disabilities. It also serves people with temporary mobility issues, such as those recovering from surgery or illness, ensuring that everyone has the freedom to travel.  

Who Can Use Paratransit Services in Philadelphia?  

Paratransit transportation services are designed to meet the transportation needs of individuals who are unable to use regular public transit due to physical, cognitive, or health-related challenges. Whether due to a permanent condition or a temporary setback, paratransit services offer a critical solution for those who need additional assistance to maintain their mobility. At Infina Health, are proud to provide these services to a wide range of individuals, each with unique needs.  

If you or someone you know faces challenges getting around, paratransit may be the solution to ensure safe, reliable, and accessible transportation. Below are the main groups who can benefit from Infina Health’s Paratransit Services:  

1. Seniors 

As people age, they often experience a decline in mobility, vision, hearing, or cognitive abilities, making it difficult to use traditional public transit. Seniors may also face challenges in getting in and out of vehicles, or navigating crowded public transportation systems. Our senior paratransit services are designed to offer seniors a safe, reliable, and comfortable way to get to essential appointments, such as doctor visits, grocery shopping, or social engagements.  

Key reasons seniors can benefit from paratransit services:  

• Difficulty walking long distances or standing for extended periods  

• Reduced vision or hearing impairments that make it difficult to use public transport  

• Cognitive or memory issues that require extra support during travel  

• Arthritis or other joint conditions that make using stairs, ramps, or public buses challenging  

At Infina Health, we prioritize the safety, comfort, and dignity of senior passengers, ensuring that every ride is as smooth and stress-free as possible.  

2. Individuals with Permanent Disabilities 

Individuals who have permanent physical, cognitive, or sensory disabilities may find conventional public transportation inaccessible. Disabilities like paralysis, blindness, or hearing impairment, as well as developmental or intellectual disabilities, often require more specialized assistance during travel. Paratransit options for disabled are equipped to handle these needs with vehicles that are wheelchair-accessible, and drivers trained to assist with boarding, securing mobility devices, and offering personalized support.  

Conditions that may qualify for paratransit services include:  

• Mobility impairments (e.g., using a wheelchair, walker, or scooter)  

• Sensory impairments (e.g., blindness or significant visual impairment)  

• Cognitive impairments (e.g., developmental disabilities or Alzheimer’s disease)  

• Hearing impairments (e.g., being Deaf or hard of hearing)  

Our drivers are trained to provide the assistance needed for safe and smooth travel, and our vehicles are fully equipped with the necessary accommodations to ensure a comfortable ride.  

3. Individuals with Temporary Disabilities or Injuries 

While permanent disabilities are commonly associated with paratransit, temporary disabilities can also make traditional transportation difficult. Whether you’ve had surgery, are recovering from an injury, or are dealing with a short-term medical condition, you might need extra help during your recovery. Paratransit services from Infina Health can bridge the gap during this time of need, providing transportation that ensures you get to appointments, therapy sessions, or even simple errands with ease.  

Examples of temporary conditions that may qualify for paratransit services:  

• Recovery from surgery (e.g., hip replacement, knee surgery, etc.)  

• Short-term mobility impairment due to injury (e.g., broken leg, sprained ankle, etc.)  

• Conditions that temporarily affect balance or coordination (e.g., recovery from a stroke or accident)  

• Pregnancy complications that limit mobility  

Even if your need for paratransit is temporary, Infina Health offers flexible services that allow you to continue with your daily routines as you recover.  

4. Individuals with Chronic Medical Conditions 

Many individuals living with chronic medical conditions face fluctuating or ongoing mobility challenges. For example, those with conditions like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, heart disease, or severe arthritis often require additional support to navigate daily tasks, especially when it comes to transportation. Paratransit ride services offer a lifeline for these individuals, ensuring they have the freedom to maintain appointments, therapies, and other essential activities despite their condition.  

Conditions that may lead to a need for paratransit services include:  

• Chronic pain and mobility limitations from conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia  

• Progressive conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, which impact movement over time  

• Heart disease, which may cause fatigue, dizziness, or difficulty walking long distances  

• Respiratory conditions that make physical exertion challenging, like COPD or severe asthma  

By offering services tailored to these individuals’ needs, Infina Health ensures that transportation doesn’t become an obstacle in their lives.  

5. Pregnant Women with Mobility Challenges 

Pregnancy can bring about physical challenges that make it difficult for some women to use traditional transportation. Issues like swelling, fatigue, or complications like gestational diabetes or high blood pressure can limit mobility. Paratransit ride services are a safe and supportive transportation option for pregnant women, especially those who may have medical conditions that make travel more challenging or risky.  

Why pregnant women may benefit from paratransit services:  

• Difficulty walking long distances or standing for long periods of time  

• Medical conditions that require frequent checkups or rest during transit  

• High-risk pregnancies that need to avoid physical strain  

At Infina Health, we provide services that ensure a smooth ride for expectant mothers, supporting them throughout their pregnancy journey.  

6. Caregivers and Family Members 

Caregivers who support individuals with disabilities or medical conditions often find themselves in need of transportation for their loved ones. Infina Health’s paratransit services are available for caregivers to schedule rides on behalf of the people they care for. This service is an ideal solution for family members who may not be able to provide consistent transportation due to work or other responsibilities.  

How caregivers can benefit from paratransit services:  

• Schedule rides for elderly parents or loved ones with disabilities  

• Ensure loved ones with temporary mobility challenges are safely transported to appointments  

• Provide consistent, reliable transportation for those in their care, reducing stress for family members  

By offering convenient, flexible booking options, Infina Health helps caregivers ensure that their loved ones receive the care they need without worrying about transportation.  

Types of Vehicles We Use for Paratransit Services 

At Infina Health, we utilize a range of ADA-compliant vehicles to ensure that we meet the varying mobility needs of our passengers. From small, maneuverable vehicles to larger, more spacious buses, our fleet is designed to provide comfortable, reliable, and safe transportation for all passengers. Below are the different types of vehicles we use for our non-emergency paratransit transport:  

1. Small Vehicles (Mini-Vans and Modified Vehicles) 

Our small vehicles are ideal for providing quick, efficient, and flexible paratransit services. These vehicles are especially useful for navigating through tight spaces, residential areas, or places with limited parking. We utilize a variety of small vehicle types, all designed to meet ADA compliance for accessibility.  

Consumer Model Vans: These are modified consumer vans such as the 15-passenger models by Ford or Chevrolet, fitted with wheelchair lifts. Depending on the vehicle’s configuration, lifts are typically installed in either the mid-body door on the right side or the rear door. These vehicles have a rugged frame and suspension to accommodate the added weight of mobility aids and ensure a smooth ride.  

Benefits:  

• Maneuverability in tight spaces.  

• Easy entry and exit with the lift.  

• Relatively compact size, making them efficient for short, local trips.  

Mini-Van Conversions: Some of our vehicles are modified mini-vans with lowered floors and ramps instead of lifts. These vehicles are an excellent solution for those needing a wheelchair-accessible ride but are also versatile enough for ambulatory passengers. The ramps are manual (unpowered) for reliability and ease of use.  

Benefits:  

• Time-efficient and flexible for both passengers with and without mobility devices.  

• Manual ramp reduces risk of mechanical failure.  

MV-1 Vehicles: These custom-built vehicles combine the features of the above types, with a fully accessible design for passengers using mobility devices. The MV-1 vehicles are purpose-built to meet both ADA and Buy America standards, ensuring a high-quality, compliant transportation solution.  

Benefits:  

• Custom-built for accessibility with ample room for mobility devices.  

• Meets both ADA and Buy America requirements for federal funding.  

2. Medium Vehicles (Cutaway Buses) 

For passengers who require more capacity or additional features, we use cutaway buses. These vehicles are built on a truck chassis and are equipped with a wheelchair lift or a ramp, offering a flexible and spacious solution for paratransit services.  

Standard Cutaway Buses: These vehicles can seat up to 15 passengers, including the driver, and are commonly used for general paratransit services. With their larger size and customizable seating arrangements, they can accommodate both ambulatory passengers and those with mobility devices. Agencies often configure these vehicles with more securement spaces for wheelchairs, ensuring that we can transport passengers comfortably and safely.  

Benefits:  

• Larger capacity for both passengers with and without mobility aids.  

• Versatile seating arrangements to accommodate different needs (wheelchair spaces, fixed seats).  

• Ideal for longer or group trips.  

Low-Floor Cutaway Buses: These vehicles feature a low-floor design for easy entry and exit, eliminating the need for stairs. The vehicle “kneels” to curb height when the door is opened, making it even easier for individuals with limited mobility to board. These buses use a ramp instead of a lift, providing a smoother boarding process.  

Benefits:  

• Easy and fast boarding due to the low-floor design.  

• Increased comfort and convenience for passengers with mobility limitations.  

3. Large Vehicles (Transit Buses) 

For larger group transportation or extensive paratransit services, Infina Health also utilizes full-size transit buses. These buses are typically over 25 feet in length and can transport many passengers at once. While less commonly used for paratransit, these vehicles are perfect for situations where there is a high demand for capacity, such as special events or large group trips.  

Transit Buses (29′-40′): These larger buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features such as wheelchair lifts or ramps. They offer the highest capacity for passengers, especially in areas where group transport is required. Due to their size, they are generally used for group transport services rather than for individual rides.  

Benefits:  

• Large passenger capacity for group trips or events.  

• Fully equipped to handle a variety of mobility devices and seating configurations.  

The Benefits of Our Paratransit Services  

Our paratransit ride services offer a range of benefits tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals with mobility challenges. Here are just a few of the key advantages of choosing Infina Health for your paratransit needs:  

• Our fleet is ADA-compliant, ensuring all vehicles are fully accessible for individuals with mobility challenges, including those using wheelchairs, scooters, or walkers.  

• We offer door-to-door service, picking up passengers directly from their home or desired location and delivering them to their destination with no need for additional transportation.  

• Vehicles are equipped with features such as comfortable seating, air conditioning, and ample space for mobility aids, ensuring a pleasant ride for all passengers.  

• We provide timely and consistent service, ensuring you can rely on us to get you to your medical appointments, social activities, or any other destination without delays.  

• Our drivers are thoroughly trained to assist with boarding, securing mobility devices, and offering any necessary support to ensure the safest possible travel experience.  

• Our services are flexible to meet your individual needs, offering convenient pick-up times for both one-time and recurring trips.  

• Our trained staff is equipped to handle a variety of mobility challenges, offering extra assistance when needed and ensuring that passengers feel supported throughout their journey.  

• Using Infina Health’s Paratransit Services can be a more affordable and accessible alternative to taxis or private transportation, especially for those with regular medical or transportation needs.  

• From small vans to larger buses, we offer different vehicle types to accommodate various group sizes and mobility requirements.  

• Our vehicles come with all the necessary equipment, such as wheelchair lifts, ramps, and securement devices, eliminating the need for passengers to arrange additional support.  

• With our customer-centric approach, you can trust that our team will go the extra mile to provide a comfortable, stress-free, and accessible experience for every ride.  

• By choosing our services, you are supporting a locally operated, dedicated company focused on enhancing the lives of individuals with mobility challenges in the Philadelphia area.  

• Our paratransit services are available on a regular basis, allowing individuals with ongoing medical appointments or daily needs to rely on us for consistent and dependable transportation.  

How We Provide Paratransit Services in Philadelphia  

At Infina Health, we prioritize making your transportation experience seamless, accessible, and efficient. Our paratransit services are designed with your convenience in mind, and our process ensures that every ride is safe and comfortable. Here’s how we provide our services from start to finish:  

Booking Your Ride 
a. Easy Scheduling: You can book a ride with us through our easy-to-use phone line or online platform. Whether you need a one-time ride or recurring transportation, our team is ready to assist. 
b. Flexible Timing: We offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs. Whether it’s a medical appointment, social event, or routine outing, we’ll find a time that works best for you.  

Vehicle Assignment 
a. Customized Fleet: Based on your needs, we’ll assign the right vehicle for your trip. Our fleet includes everything from small mini-vans to larger buses, all equipped to handle wheelchairs, scooters, and other mobility devices. 
b. ADA-Compliant: Every vehicle in our fleet is fully ADA-compliant, featuring wheelchair lifts, ramps, and securement areas, ensuring that everyone can travel safely and comfortably.  

Pick-Up 
a. Door-to-Door Service: We offer convenient door-to-door pick-up. Our trained drivers will arrive at your specified location to assist you with boarding, making sure you’re comfortable and secure before starting the journey. 
b. Assistance with Mobility Devices: If you use a wheelchair, scooter, or other mobility device, our staff is trained to properly secure your device and provide the necessary assistance to ensure a smooth boarding process.  

The Ride 
a. Comfortable and Safe Travel: While on board, you’ll experience a safe and comfortable ride. Our vehicles are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, and enough space for mobility aids. Our drivers are dedicated to providing a smooth ride and are always attentive to your needs during the trip. 
b. Friendly and Professional Drivers: Our drivers are trained to assist with any special needs during the ride, such as helping with the securement of mobility devices or offering support if you need assistance during travel. 

Arrival at Your Destination 
a. Prompt Drop-Off: Upon arrival at your destination, we’ll assist you in safely exiting the vehicle. Whether you’re heading to a medical appointment, a social outing, or another location, we ensure that you’re dropped off in a safe, accessible spot. 
b. Ongoing Support: If you require assistance once you arrive, we’ll make sure you’re taken care of before we leave. Our goal is to ensure a seamless journey, every step of the way.  

Ongoing Communication 
a. Real-Time Updates: We provide updates on your ride’s status, including when the vehicle is on its way, to ensure you’re always informed. 
b. Customer Support: Our customer service team is always available to assist you with any questions or concerns before, during, or after your ride. We’re here to make your experience as smooth as possible.  

Choose Infina Health for the Best Paratransit Services Philadelphia, PA  

At Infina Health, we are committed to providing ADA-compliant transportation that ensures safety, comfort, and accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. Our fleet is equipped with wheelchair lifts, ramps, and securement systems, meeting all ADA requirements to provide a seamless experience for passengers. Whether you need reliable transportation to medical appointments, social outings, or daily errands, we prioritize your comfort and independence. Trust Infina Health for punctual, professional, and personalized paratransit services designed to meet your unique needs.