JONESBORO, AR (KAIT) - The East Arkansas Area Agency on Aging has made the decision to get rid of their transportation program.
"We will not be doing transportation after June 30th of this year," said Director Monte Callicotte.
The decision to do away with the service was due to a number of financial factors.
"The rate of pay, it's not keeping pace with the responsibilities and the increasing cost," said Callicotte.
The transportation program covers 10 counties. With employees that work in that area of the agency, many are wondering what is next for them.
"We're in the process of putting together a severance package for those folks. We'll also be offering some training opportunities that would possibly allow them to work in another position with the agency," said Callicotte.
There are also several residents with Medicaid who rely on that service. Callicotte said they are hopeful some other broker will take over those responsibilities.
"This is not the first time a transportation broker has not renewed their contract," said Callicotte.
When the Department of Human Services has made a decision on who will take over those responsibilities, those who are enrolled in Medicaid, will be sent that new information.
"Medicaid generally sends out a notice to all Medicaid recipients, the phone number and who the new transportation broker will be," said Callicotte.
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