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Outline

The Metro Access Application form plays a crucial role in ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access specialized transit services tailored to meet their unique travel needs. By applying for MetroAccess Door-to-Door Paratransit Service, eligible individuals benefit from a system designed to complement the traditional Metrobus and Metrorail services, providing a more personalized transport solution. Notably, the application instructs that submissions are to be made in person at the Transit Accessibility Center, emphasizing the importance of an in-person assessment to accurately gauge the applicant’s needs. This assessment is based on criteria established by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), underscoring the program's commitment to compliance and fairness. Applicants and their healthcare providers are required to meticulously complete and submit the application, a process outlined across several steps in the provided documents that insist on the provision of detailed and accurate information regarding the applicant's condition, mobility aids used, and emergency contacts, among other critical data points. The instructions also highlight the need for applicants to familiarize themselves with accessible transportation options and prepare for a pre-assessment interview and possible appointment for further evaluation. A notable aspect of this application process is the non-consideration of financial need as a criterion for eligibility, focusing solely on the impact of the disability on the individual's functional abilities to use accessible public transportation. Moreover, additional provisions such as the authorization for assistance in application, if the applicant is unable to give consent or requires representation, showcase the program's thoroughness in accommodating diverse needs and situations. This approach not only respects the autonomy and privacy of applicants but also ensures a comprehensive review of each case to fairly determine eligibility for this essential service.

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Application for

MetroAccess Door-to-Door Paratransit Service

For People with Disabilities

DO NOT MAIL OR FAX APPLICATION

Transit Accessibility Center

6005th Street, NW Washington, DC 20001

(Between Chinatown/Gallery Place and Judiciary Square Metro Stations)

(202)962-2700 & select option #5 TTY (202) 962-2033

All Assessments are by Appointment Only

Thank you for yourd oninterMetro’sst in Mdeterminationtro services offoryourpeopleeligibilitywith disabilities. The following services

(A)Reduced Fare Program for People with Disabilities – Eligible people with disabilities

travel on accessible Metrobus and Metrorail for half the regular (rush hour) fare at all times. This

program is available for people with disabilities who use the accessible Metrobus and Metrorailare available base:

system as their primary travel option. For more information on the Reduced Fare program or to

obtain an application please visit our website atunder the section titled “How

dohttp://wwwI get a Metro.wmataDisability.com/accessibility/metroaccessID Card?”_eligibility.cfm

or call (202) 962-2700 and select option 1 from the phone

(B)MetroAccess – Door-to-door, shared ride public paratransit service for people with disabilities who are unable to use regular accessible Metrobus and Metrorail public transportation

for some or all of their public transportation due to a disability. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) outlines specific criteria to determine eligibility for paratransit service and an application anmenu.

in-person assessment is required. MetroAccess operates throughout the metropolitan area where there is regularnd PrincebusGeorge’sand/or railCountyservinceMaryland;. Service isArlingtonprovidedCounty,in Washington,Fairfax County,DC; MontgomeryCity of County a

Alexandria, City of Fairfax, and City of Falls Church in Virginia.

To apply for this service you and your healthcare provider must complete this application. Please read and follow the instructions on page 2.

Instructions

Application revision date: March 2017

Page 1 OF 9

Step 1: Read the entire application and complete Part A.

Step 2: Read Accessible Transportation Options for People with Disabilities and Senior Citizens in

the Washington, DC Metropolitan Area, included with this application packet or also available at http://www.wmata.com/accessibility/doc/Accessible_Transportation_Options.pdf

Step 3: Take the entire application to a healthcare provider holding active licensure or credentials in certifythe areatheofapplication:your disabilityPhysician,to completePhysician’sPart BAssistant,. One of the following health care providers must

Certified Nurse Practitioner, Optometrist

(visual disabilities only), Podiatrist (disabilities of the foot and ankle only) or, Licensed Clinical Psychologist (Psychiatric disabilities only). It is your responsibility to ensure the original signed and completed application is received by the Metro Transit Accessibility Center on the day of your appointment.

Step 4: Upon completion of the application, call 202-962-2700 and select option 5, ( TTY 202-962-2033) to conduct a pre-assessment interview. At that time, a determination will be made as to the type of

appointment and/or assessment that will be required, and an appointment will be made for you. officePleasewithinhave 60yourdayscompletedof the dateapplicationof the healthcareat handprovider’swhen yousignaturecall. Also. Applicatiensure you contact the

ons more than 60

days old will not be accepted. You will be instructed to bring your completed original application with you to the appointment. Do not mail or fax the application. NOTE: We require 24 hours notice if you need to cancel your appointment, except in case of a verified emergency. If you miss or cancel 2 appointments you will be required to complete a new application and be required to wait 120 days to reapply.

Copies, faxes, and scans will not be accepted. Applications with missing information will not be accepted and will be returned to the applicant without processing. Applications that are mailed will be returned to the applicant with instructions to contact the Transit Accessibility Center.

Step 5: Metro will determine your eligibility based on how your disability impacts your functional abilities to use the accessible Metrobus and Metrorail public transportation system. Financial need is not a criterion for MetroAccess eligibility. All assessments take place at the Metro Transit Accessibility Center. If you use a mobility aid, please bring it with you to the assessment. If transportation is needed, advise the Metro Transit Accessibility Center representative at the time of your telephone interview.

If you have questions or need additional information, please contact the Metro Transit Accessibility Center at 202-962-2700 and select option 5, TTY 202-962-2033 or e-mail eligibility@wmata.com. Please do not bring children to the appointment unless the child is the applicant. Please note that the minimum age to apply for the service is 5 years old. The office is open Monday, Wednesday

-Friday from 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, and Tuesday, 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM. Hours are subject to change without notice so Please call in advance. Phone lines open at 8:30 on all days.

Application revision date: March 2017

Page 2 OF 9

Phone: ( ) ____________________________________

I am a current MetroAccess customer. MetroAccess ID Card # ________________________

I am a current Reduced Fare customer. Reduced Fare ID Card # ____________________

I have access to the internet and/or have an email account.

Part A: APPLICANT INFORMATION AND RELEASE (Copies, faxes or scans will not be accepted)

Last Name______________________________ First Name______________________________ Middle Initial ________

Street Address:

Apartment #:

 

 

City, State, Zip:

County or City:

 

 

Gender: Male Female Date of Birth: ____/______/________ E-mail:_________________________________

Primary phone number: ( ) _______________________________ Home Cell Phone Work

Secondary phone number: ( ) _____________________________ Home Cell Phone Work

In case of an emergency, who should be notified?

Name:

Relationship:

Mobility Devices: Do you require the use of a mobility device when traveling? No Yes

Check all that apply: Man

al Wheelchair

Support C

e Portable Oxygen

Power Wheelchair

 

 

800 pounds when occupied

CrutchesWalkerorScooterWhiteupCane(forto 48” xvisually30” andimpaired)no more than Other: _____________________________

Do you use a service animal?

No Yes

Sometimes If yes, please describe the type of

 

animal and what service(s) the animal was trained to perform:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I certify that all information contained in part A of this application were completed by me or my appointed representative and are true.

Original Signature of Applicant: __________________________________________ Date:_________________________

(Under 18, Signature of Parent or Guardian)

Application revision date: March 2017

Page 3 OF 9

AUTHORIZATION TO HELP ME APPLY FOR METROACCESS SERVICES

Please complete the authorization below if you are providing legal authority to another party to complete this application and act as your agent in the processing of this application.

** This form is only to be used when an applicant is not able to otherwise give consent for

Applicant’sassist ce andNameinformation sharing.

Applicant’s Address______________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

I would like to apply for MetroAccess door to door paratransit service.

I am appointing _____________________________to help me apply for MetroAccess service. For this

purpose only, he or she has the authority to act on my behalf, including scheduling appointments, completing paperwork, and providing information about me to WMATA (Metro), so long as it relates to my application for MetroAccess service. Metro may release any information it has about me upon request, to this person, including health care information, so long as it relates to my application for services. For this purpose only, my agent may request, receive, and review any information, oral or written, regarding my physical or mental health, including but not limited to, medical and hospital records and other protected health information, and consent to disclosure of this information.

For all purposes related to this document, my agent is my personal representative under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and is entitled to request, receive, and review protected health information: any information, oral or written, regarding my physical or mental health, including but not limited to medical and hospital records, and other protected health information. My agent may also consent to disclosure of this information.

Application revision date: March 2017

Page 4 OF 9

This agreement expires: (Select one from options below.)

_____ At the end of my appointment on __________________; or

_____ At the end of my MetroAccess certification process; or

_____ At the end of my MetroAccess certification and any applicable appeal process.

In any event, this agreement would expire no later than one year from when it is signed. I can cancel this agreement at any time by telling the person and calling Metro to inform them that this authorization is no longer valid.

Signature

Date

Printed Name

I, ________________________________________________, agree to help ______________________________ with

(Agent’s Name)

(Applicant’s Name)

his/her application for MetroAccess services. Either I, or another person from my organization, will come with the applicant to their eligibility appointment and assist him/her.

Signature

Date

Printed Name

Application revision date: March 2017

Page 5 OF 9

Part B: HEALTH CARE PROVIDER CERTIFICATION

holding active licensure or credentials in the area of the applicant’s disability orA healthcarethe applicant’sproviderprimary care provider as outlined on page 2 must complete Part B.

Your patient has requested eligibility for MetroAccess services. MetroAccess is a door to door,

uniquely qualified to clarify his or her functional

 

the applicant’s healthcare provider you are

shared ride paratransit service for people whose disability(ies) prevent them from riding the fixed

route accessible system, all or part of the time. As

 

icant’s functional abilities we

that you the healthcare provider not the applicant

 

 

 

 

abilities and l mitations to ride the M

tro

’s require

accessible bus and rail system. In order to determine this appl

 

travel independently onhow the applicant’s

 

 

 

complete and certify all of the following

 

 

 

 

 

sections. Please detail

 

disability(ies) impact their ability to board, navigate and

 

 

the accessible fixed route system. Please be as specific as possible

Applicant’s HIPAA Authorization:

I _________________________________authorize the healthcare provider completing this application to

release to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (Metro) any protected health information about my disability in order to verify my eligibility for Metro Services for People with Disabilities. I also authorize the release of further information should it be needed for this application for a period of 60 days from the date of my signature on part A of this application.

____________________________________________________________ (Applicant’s name) is being referred for a brief

functional assessment to determine eligibility for Metro services for people with disabilities.

1.Name of Health Care Provider: (Please print)____________________________________________________

2.Phone: ( ) _______________________

3.License Number/State Issued: ___________________________

4.Street Address & Suite #: ________________________________________________________________________________

5.City, State, Zip: ____________________________________________________________________________________________

6.Specialization: ____________________________________________________________________________________________

7.Written Diagnosis (es) and ICD-9CM and/or DSM Code(s): ______________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

8.HYPERTENSION: Eligibility for service is determined by a functional assessment, which is

conducted by a certified/licensed therapist with the Transit Accessibility Center. Applicants may be required to walk/travel up to 1/2 mile. In order to ensure the safety ofe applicant’sthe applicant,restinga bloodB/P is pressure (B/P) reading is taken prior to starting the assessment. If th

Application revision date: March 2017

Page 6 OF 9

160/100 or higher, the assessment will be suspended pending certification by the health care provider that the applicant can complete the assessment. If you are currently treating the applicant for hypertension and certify that he/she is cleared to complete the functional assessment, we may proceed without referring the applicant back to you for evaluation and certification.

9.Are you currently treating this applicant for Hypertension? No Yes

10.Applicant can complete the assessment as described above if B/P does not go above a reading of: ______________________

11.If applicant has a seizure disorder or epilepsy have they had a tonic-clonic seizure within the past 4 months?

No Yes N/A

12.Does the applicant require a Personal Care Attendant (PCA) when traveling on public transportation?

No Yes

13. Does the applicant require any of the following mobility aids listed in question 14?

No Yes

14.Check all that apply: Manual Wheelchair Support Cane Portable Oxygen

Power Wheelchair or Scooter CrutchesWalkerWhite Cane (visually impaired) Other: __________________

15. What is the expected duration of the disability? (Please initial appropriate box)

_____Short-Term: Conditions that last at least 90 days, but are likely to improve within one year.

____Long-Term: Conditions with absolutely little expectation of improvement

16. Does this applicant’s disability(ies) prevent him/her from independently using the accessible Metrobus and Metrorail system?

No Yes the disability or health condition impact the applicant’s ability to travel If yes, HOW does

independently from one location to another on the accessible Metrobus and Metrorail system?

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Application revision date: March 2017

Page 7 OF 9

17.If this applicant is currently on medication(s), will the side effects of this significantly reduce or hinder his/her ability to independently ride the accessible Metrobus and Metrorail system?

No Yes N/A

applicant’sIf you selectedabilityyestoforusethisthequestion,accessiblepleasefixedexplainroute bushowandtherailsidesystem:eff cts would hinder this

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Based on the applicant’sENVIRONMENTALdisability(ies),ISSUESpleaseTHATtell usAFFECTif followingTHEenvironmentalAPPLICANT factors affect his/her ability to ride Metro’s accessible bus and rail system.

18.Would extremes in temperature affect this applicant’s ability to ride the accessible Metrobus or Metrorail?

No Yes

If yes, please explain the effect and the extent of the limitation(s)

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

19. Would ice and/or snow affect this applicant’s ability to ride accessible Metrobus or Metrorail system?

No Yes

If yes please explain the effect and the extent of the limitation(s)

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

20. Would poor air quality affect this applicant’s ability to ride Metrobus or Metrorail? Yes No If yes please explain the effect and the extent of the limitation(s). NOTE: If applicant suffers from Asthma, please indicate if the applicant has been on systemic medication for the immediate past 6 months OR has been required to use fast acting inhalers for three or more episodes per week for the immediate past six months

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Application revision date: March 2017

Page 8 OF 9

21.In your medical opinion what other factors related to the applicant’s disability(ies) affect his/her ability to ride the accessible Metrobus or Metrorail?

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

HEALTH CARE PROVIDER SIGNATURE PAGE

I certify that I have completed the questions in Part B and that the information provided is correct.

Original Signature of Physician/Healthcare Provider: ______________________________________________

(Note: Must be original hand signature, not signature stamp)

Printed Name_________________________________________________________Date: _____________________

False certification may be reported to the licensing agency under District of Columbia Code Annotated,

Section 2-3305.15, Code of Virginia 54. 1-2915, or Maryland Health Occupations Code Annotated 14-404 or appropriate code for state of license. Metro reservesn, (2) makethe rightthe finalto: (1)determinationv ify the validityon anofapplicant’sthe licenseeligibilityof the health care provider providing the certificatio

for MetroThes rvicesADA requiresfor peopleMetrowith disabilities,to provideanotificationd (3) retainofa copyan applicant’sof this applicationeligibility. status within 21 NOTE:

days of submitting a completed application. If, for any reason, it takes longer than that to process the determination, the applicant will be eligible to use MetroAccess until Metro completes the eligibility process. This is called "presumptive eligibility." If 21 days have passed since Metro received the completed application the applicant will be automatically granted eligibility for MetroAccess until the review process is completed.

Application revision date: March 2017

Page 9 OF 9

Document Attributes

Fact Name Description
Application Submission Process The application for MetroAccess Service must not be mailed or faxed but delivered in person to the Transit Accessibility Center in Washington, D.C.
Service Area MetroAccess operates throughout the metropolitan area including Washington, D.C., parts of Maryland (Prince George’s County), and parts of Virginia (Arlington County, Fairfax County, City of Alexandria, City of Fairfax, and City of Falls Church).
Assessment Requirement An in-person assessment is required to determine eligibility for the MetroAccess service, in accordance with criteria outlined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Governing Law The MetroAccess service and its eligibility criteria are governed by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

How to Fill Out Metro Access Application

Filling out the Metro Access Application form is the first step in applying for MetroAccess Door-to-Door Paratransit Service, which is designed for people with disabilities who are unable to use regular accessible Metrobus and Metrorail services. This process requires careful attention to detail to ensure that the application is complete and accurate. Following this guide will help you navigate the application process smoothly and efficiently.

  1. Begin by thoroughly reading the entire application packet to understand the services available and the eligibility criteria.
  2. Review the document on Accessible Transportation Options for People with Disabilities and Senior Citizens in the Washington, DC Metropolitan Area, which is included in the application packet or can be found online.
  3. Complete Part A of the application, which includes your personal information, mobility device usage, and emergency contact details. Ensure all the information is accurate and up to date.
  4. Visit a healthcare provider who holds active licensure or credentials in the area of your disability to have them complete Part B of the application. This can be a Physician, Physician’s Assistant, Certified Nurse Practitioner, Optometrist (for visual disabilities), Podiatrist (for foot and ankle disabilities), or a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (for psychiatric disabilities).
  5. Call the Metro Transit Accessibility Center at (202) 962-2700 and select option 5 (or TTY (202) 962-2033 for those needing it) to conduct a pre-assessment interview and schedule an appointment for an in-person assessment. Make sure you have your application at hand during the call.
  6. Bring the original signed and completed application with you to the assessment appointment. Remember, do not mail or fax the application.
  7. Attend your scheduled assessment at the Metro Transit Accessibility Center, bringing any mobility aids you use. If you require transportation to the assessment, inform the representative during your pre-assessment call.

After your eligibility has been assessed, Metro will make a determination based on how your disability impacts your functional abilities to use the accessible Metrobus and Metrorail public transportation system. During this process, it's important to provide comprehensive and accurate information to avoid any delays. Remember that financial need is not a criterion for MetroAccess eligibility. For further questions or information, you may contact the Metro Transit Accessibility Center directly.

More About Metro Access Application

  1. What is MetroAccess?

    MetroAccess is a door-to-door, shared ride public paratransit service for individuals with disabilities who are unable to use the regular, accessible Metrobus and Metrorail systems for some or all of their transit needs due to their disability. This service operates within the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area, extending to certain counties in Maryland and Virginia. It's designed according to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) criteria to determine eligibility.

  2. How do I apply for MetroAccess Service?

    The application process involves several steps. First, read the entire application and complete Part A. Next, familiarize yourself with accessible transportation options included in the application packet or available online. Then, have a licensed or credentialed healthcare provider fill out Part B of the application, verifying your disability. After the application is complete, call the Transit Accessibility Center to schedule a pre-assessment interview and appointment. Remember, applications must be received within 60 days of the healthcare provider's signature and cannot be mailed or faxed.

  3. Who can complete the healthcare provider section of the application?

    Only licensed or credentialed healthcare providers in certain fields can complete Part B of the MetroAccess application. This includes Physicians, Physician's Assistants, Certified Nurse Practitioners, Optometrists (for visual disabilities only), Podiatrists (for foot and ankle disabilities only), and Licensed Clinical Psychologists (for psychiatric disabilities only).

  4. What happens if I can't attend my assessment appointment?

    You must provide at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your assessment appointment, except in cases of a verified emergency. If you miss or cancel two appointments without proper notice, you will need to complete a new application and wait 120 days before reapplying for MetroAccess services.

  5. Is financial need considered in the MetroAccess eligibility process?

    No, financial need is not a criterion for determining eligibility for MetroAccess. The main consideration is how your disability impacts your ability to use accessible Metrobus and Metrorail public transportation.

  6. What should I bring to the assessment appointment?

    Ensure to bring any mobility aids you use to the appointment. If transportation to the assessment is a concern, please inform the representative at the Metro Transit Accessibility Center during your telephone interview. They can provide guidance and assistance.

  7. Can someone assist me in applying for MetroAccess services?

    Yes, if you're unable to complete the application on your own, you may appoint someone to help. This can involve tasks such as scheduling appointments, filling out paperwork, and communicating with Metro on your behalf. The appointed individual would have the authority to act on your behalf strictly for applying for MetroAccess services. An authorization form is included in the application packet for this purpose.

  8. How can I contact MetroAccess or the Transit Accessibility Center?

    You can reach the Transit Accessibility Center by calling (202) 962-2700 and selecting option 5, or for TTY, dial (202) 962-2033. You may also email questions to eligibility@wmata.com. For more information about the Reduced Fare Program or MetroAccess services, including obtaining an application, visit their website.

Common mistakes

    When it comes to filling out the Metro Access Application form, several common mistakes can affect the process. Addressing these issues promptly ensures a smoother application process for individuals seeking door-to-door paratransit service due to disabilities. Here are five common mistakes:

  1. Not reading the instructions carefully on page 2. The application process is detailed, with specific steps that need to be followed precisely. Skipping over the instructions can lead to missing important information about the application or the required documentation, which might result in delays or the need to resubmit the application.

  2. Failing to complete Part A of the application thoroughly. This section gathers crucial applicant information and a release statement. Leaving fields incomplete or providing inaccurate information can halt the review process, making it imperative to double-check answers for completeness and accuracy.

  3. Omitting the signature and date on the application. An original signature from the applicant is required to validate the application. Applications without the applicant's (or, if under 18, the parent or guardian’s) signature and date are not processed, as this is a critical step in confirming the authenticity and intent of the application.

  4. Not ensuring that the application is received by the Metro Transit Accessibility Center within 60 days of the healthcare provider’s signature. The time-sensitive nature of the application process means that delayed submissions could lead to the necessity of restarting the application process, further delaying access to necessary services.

  5. Mistakes in scheduling or attending the assessment appointment. The guidelines require that applicants do not mail or fax the application and that they provide 24 hours' notice if they need to cancel their appointment, except in cases of a verified emergency. Missing or canceling two appointments necessitates completing a new application and waiting 120 days to reapply, significantly impacting an applicant’s access to services.

    Besides these common missteps, applicants are reminded to carefully review the accessible transportation options document included in the application packet and to prepare for their appointments by ensuring all necessary documentation and mobility aids are ready. Each step is designed to facilitate a comprehensive review process, ensuring that services are appropriately matched to applicants’ needs.

Documents used along the form

Applying for MetroAccess Door-to-Door Paratransit Service opens up a world of travel opportunities for individuals with disabilities, but it's just one piece of the puzzle. Alongside the primary application form, several other documents often play critical roles in ensuring a smooth application process and the provision of necessary services. Each document has its unique place and purpose, tailored to meet specific needs and requirements.

  • Proof of Disability Documentation: This may include medical records, a letter from a healthcare provider, or official documentation from another federal state or local agency verifying the individual's disability. It provides essential evidence to support the application.
  • Photo Identification: A government-issued ID, such as a driver's license or a state ID, to confirm the applicant's identity.
  • Residency Verification: Documents such as utility bills, lease agreements, or mortgage statements that prove the applicant's residency within the service area.
  • Income Verification: Though financial need is not a criterion for MetroAccess eligibility, some supporting programs or fare reductions may require proof of income. This could include tax returns, pay stubs, or benefit statements.
  • Authorization for Release of Information: A signed form allowing healthcare providers and other professionals to share information with MetroAccess necessary for determining eligibility.
  • Accessible Transportation Options Brochure: Provides an overview of alternative transportation options available, useful for understanding all services provided by the transit authority.
  • Appointment Confirmation Letter: A letter from MetroAccess confirming the date, time, and location of the in-person assessment appointment, along with any special instructions.
  • ADA Paratransit Eligibility Statement: For individuals already approved for ADA Paratransit services in another jurisdiction, this document can help streamline the application process.
  • Customer Rights and Responsibilities Brochure: Outlines the expectations for both MetroAccess and its customers, ensuring clear communication and understanding of the program.
  • Reduced Fare Program Application: For those eligible, an application to receive reduced fares on Metrobus and Metrorail services, enhancing affordability and accessibility.

While the MetroAccess Application form is the gateway to accessing vital paratransit services, each accompanying document further contributes to building a comprehensive profile that assists in delivering personalized, efficient, and accessible transportation solutions. Whether it's through providing clear identification, financial information, or detailed medical documentation, these forms collectively ensure that the eligibility process is thorough, fair, and attuned to the unique needs of each applicant.

Similar forms

  • Disability Parking Permit Application: Both documents require applicants to provide personal information, including address, phone number, email, and specifics regarding their disability and mobility device needs. They also often necessitate a healthcare provider to verify the disability and mobility needs, similar to how the Metro Access Application necessitates healthcare provider certification for eligibility.

  • Medicaid Transportation Assistance Application: This form shares similarities with the Metro Access Application as both involve an application process that requires detailed information about the applicant's health and mobility. They both aim to provide transportation services to individuals due to health-related conditions which limit their ability to use standard public transit options.

  • Accessible Housing Application: The focus on accessibility is a key similarity between these two forms. Accessible Housing Applications typically ask for detailed information on the applicant’s disability, the required accommodations, and may include the need for verification by a healthcare provider, much like the Metro Access Application that requires detailed information about the disability and an in-person assessment to ensure eligibility.

  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Disability Application: Both forms are geared towards serving individuals with disabilities, requiring detailed personal information, descriptions of the disability, and often evidence or certification from healthcare providers. The aim is to establish the applicant's need for benefits or services based on their disability, which significantly impacts their daily functioning and mobility similar to the Metro Access process.

  • Special Education Services Application: Similarities include the requirement for detailed information about the applicant's condition and the necessity of professional verification to qualify for services. Both applications are designed to evaluate and accommodate individuals with disabilities, albeit in different contexts, focusing on ensuring that the individual's specific needs are met.

Dos and Don'ts

Filling out the Metro Access Application form accurately and completely is crucial for individuals with disabilities seeking door-to-door paratransit service. Here are several recommendations to ensure the process is handled appropriately:

  • Do carefully read the entire application before starting. Understanding every section in advance helps in gathering all necessary information and avoids any mistakes.
  • Don't rush through the application. Take your time to fill out each section with accurate and current details to avoid the need for corrections later.
  • Do ensure that a healthcare provider with appropriate credentials completes Part B of the application. It's essential to have a professional who fully understands your disability and its impact on your ability to use standard public transportation services.
  • Don't mail or fax the application. The instructions explicitly state that applications should not be sent through mail or fax but brought in person to the Metro Transit Accessibility Center.
  • Do call and schedule your pre-assessment interview within 60 days of the healthcare provider's signature. Applications older than 60 days from this signature will not be considered.
  • Don't forget to bring your mobility aid to the assessment, if you use one. This is crucial for accurately determining your transportation needs.
  • Do provide contact information for an emergency contact who can be notified if needed. This information is essential for ensuring your safety and well-being.
  • Don't bring children to the appointment unless the child is the applicant. This ensures the focus remains on accurately assessing the applicant's needs.
  • Do contact the Metro Transit Accessibility Center if transportation to the assessment is needed. They can provide or arrange transportation for your appointment.

Following these do's and don'ts can simplify the process of applying for MetroAccess service, ensuring that those who need accommodation receive the necessary support.

Misconceptions

  • Many people think they can mail or fax their Metro Access Application, but this is incorrect. The application specifically states not to mail or fax it. Instead, you must bring the completed original application with you to your appointment.

  • Another common misconception is that the application process for MetroAccess is strictly paperwork-based. In reality, an in-person assessment is required as part of the eligibility determination process. This ensures that the needs of each applicant are thoroughly evaluated.

  • Some applicants believe that only doctors can complete the healthcare provider section of the application (Part B). However, the application clearly outlines that various healthcare providers, including Physician’s Assistants, Certified Nurse Practitioners, Optometrists (for visual disabilities only), Podiatrists (for disabilities of the foot and ankle only), and Licensed Clinical Psychologists (for psychiatric disabilities only), can fill out this section, provided they hold active licensure or credentials in the area of the applicant’s disability.

  • Many applicants are under the impression that their financial situation will influence their eligibility for MetroAccess services. However, the application form states that financial need is not a criterion for eligibility. The primary factor considered is how an individual’s disability impacts their functional abilities to use the accessible Metrobus and Metrorail public transportation system.

Key takeaways

Filling out and using the Metro Access Application form is crucial for individuals with disabilities seeking door-to-door paratransit service in the Washington, DC, area. Here are seven key takeaways to guide you through the process:

  • Applicants must not mail or fax the application. It's imperative to hand-deliver the completed and signed original form to the Transit Accessibility Center located at 600 5th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001, between Chinatown/Gallery Place and Judiciary Square Metro Stations.
  • All assessments for eligibility are strictly by appointment, emphasizing the need to call the Transit Accessibility Center at (202) 962-2700 and select option #5 (or TTY (202) 962-2033 for those with hearing impairments) after the form is filled out to arrange your meeting.
  • The application process requires the involvement of a healthcare provider with active licensure specific to the applicant's disability area. This underscores the importance of professional validation of the disability and its impact on the applicant's mobility needs.
  • The form demands comprehensive completion. Any applications lacking required information or submitted past 60 days after the healthcare provider's sign-off will be rejected, highlighting the importance of timely and accurate submissions.
  • MetroAccess eligibility determination is based solely on how a disability affects an individual's functional abilities to use the Washington, DC metropolitan area's accessible public transit system, ensuring decisions are made with fairness and inclusivity.
  • Copies, faxes, or scans of the application will not be accepted, and applications mailed to the Transit Accessibility Center will be returned unprocessed. This detail stresses the necessity for applicants to provide the original document in person.
  • Applicants need to bring any mobility aids they use to the assessment appointment for a thorough evaluation of their transportation needs. This requirement ensures that the assessment accurately reflects the applicant's daily travel capabilities and constraints.

These key points are instrumental in navigating the MetroAccess application process, designed to provide essential transportation services to individuals with disabilities. By diligently following these guidelines, applicants can efficiently and effectively pursue the support they need for their mobility.

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