Northwest Regional Council (NWRC)

Service Information

Services Provided:

Aging & Disability, Behavioral Health, Care Coordination, Family Caregiver Support, In-Home Care, Non-Emergency Transport, Tribal Outreach, and more.

Service Area:

Island, San Juan, Skagit, and Whatcom Counties

Hours: 

Monday – Friday

8:30 am – 4:30 pm

Contact:

Website: https://www.nwrcwa.org/

Phone: (360) 676-6749

About:

Northwest Regional Council (NWRC) is a regional agency dedicated to supporting older adults, people with disabilities, and their families in Island, San Juan, Skagit, and Whatcom counties. NWRC coordinates essential services, including case management, long-term care, and community-based supports, to help individuals maintain independence and quality of life. Through partnerships with trusted providers like Medstar, NWRC ensures clients have reliable, ADA-accessible transportation to medical appointments, essential services, and community activities.

How Medstar Supports Northwest Regional Council (NWRC)

  • Provides Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) for NWRC clients accessing primary care, specialty appointments, rehabilitation, and long-term care services.

  • Operates ADA-compliant vehicles with trained drivers who assist riders with walkers, wheelchairs, and other mobility needs.

  • Supports transportation for vulnerable adults, including those receiving services through case management, Medicaid programs, or state aging and disability networks.

  • Offers out-of-area medical transportation when care is not available locally, including trips to Seattle or other regional providers, with proper documentation.

  • Coordinates rides with NWRC staff and authorized brokers to ensure safe, timely, and appropriate transportation for each client.

Northwest Regional Council (NWRC) – Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who qualifies for Medicaid transportation through NWRC?

If you're enrolled in Apple Health (Medicaid) and have no other means of transportation, you may qualify for free rides to Medicaid-covered medical appointments. Contact NWRC to confirm eligibility and schedule assistance.

Q: How do I schedule a Medicaid ride with NWRC?

Call NWRC at (360) 738-4554 at least two business days before your appointment. Urgent trips may be arranged if your provider confirms it was scheduled within 24 hours.

Q: What information do I need to book my ride?

Be ready to provide your full name, birthdate, appointment details (time, date, address, and provider name), and the reason for your visit. This helps determine the most appropriate and efficient ride option.

Q: Can I get a ride to an appointment outside my local area?

Yes, if the service is medically necessary and not available locally. NWRC can coordinate rides to the closest qualified provider, including Seattle, with proper documentation from your healthcare provider.