United Care Transport
Medical Transportation for Every Individual in the Corner

In Mid-Missouri, public transportation is often located far from residential areas, making healthcare access exclusive and challenging. Jordan and Chance are both from Central Missouri and have witnessed firsthand the disparities rural communities face when accessing healthcare. Determined to improve access to medical transportation in remote areas, they founded United Care Transport (UCT). With Jordan’s expertise in healthcare and Chance’s decade of military service, they combined their skills to create a solution that bridges this critical gap.

With a dedicated team, and strong community support, UCT is a passion project for Jordan. Her vision is to address regional disparities in Mid-Missouri by providing reliable healthcare access to every county in the state, offering a vital service to those in need.

“We see this service as an opportunity for individuals to receive the care they need and deserve, which can change their lives,” says Jordan Mertgen, founder of UCT.

Recognized as a trusted non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) provider, UCT specializes in door-to-door medical transport, primarily serving the Medicaid population, which includes low-income individuals. To fulfill this mission, the company collaborates with local brokers, overseeing credentialed transportation services operated by licensed drivers and certified companies. These partnerships help ensure timely and reliable transit, addressing the healthcare needs of underserved individuals who face mobility challenges.

UCT consistently serves rural areas in central Missouri, where larger transportation providers often fall short. In cities like Boonville, Columbia, and Jefferson City, third-party agencies frequently rely on Uber, Lyft, and other commercial platforms for medical transport. Still, the need well exceeds what these services have to offer. In contrast, UCT offers a dedicated, patient-centered approach, providing a range of non-emergency transportation services, including wheelchair assistance, medical appointment transportation, and ambulatory support.

One of UCT’s key differentiators is its comprehensive screening process, which fosters trust between drivers and patients. By incorporating feedback from both parties, the company continuously enhances NEMT standards and ensures a compassionate, professional service.

All UCT drivers are extensively trained to provide safe and secure transportation while maintaining transparency and professionalism. Each driver is certified in CPR, first aid, and bloodborne pathogen training and adheres to HIPAA regulations. Additionally, they undergo training in sexual harassment prevention, cultural competency, and an eight-hour defensive driving course. Candidates are also evaluated through a phone interview and a driving test to ensure they meet UCT’s high standards for experience, professionalism, and dedication to healthcare.

One inspiring example of UCT’s impact is the story of a cancer patient who relied on the company for transportation to his chemotherapy and radiation appointments. Thanks to UCT, he never missed a single session. After completing his treatment, he developed a deep appreciation for the purpose of NEMT and decided to join UCT as a driver, launching a second career. A year later, he is now one of the company’s top drivers, actively training new hires and managing dispatch services for rural communities.

UCT’s vision has become a reality through the long-term expansion of its service areas, supported by strong partnerships and a dedicated team. Currently, the company is launching a new transport branch in the Sedalia area, with services set to begin in February. Additionally, UCT has partnered with the University of Missouri Healthcare and Boone Hospital in Columbia to extend its reach, aligning with the health equity standards established by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Beyond serving patients, UCT’s growth is focused on collaborating with healthcare facilities to drive innovation and improve healthcare access—together.