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The Metro Access Application form is a vital document for individuals with disabilities who need access to paratransit services. Completing it accurately is essential to ensure eligibility for MetroAccess, which provides door-to-door transportation for those unable to use standard Metrobus and Metrorail services. This form also covers the Reduced Fare Program, allowing eligible individuals to travel at half the regular fare on accessible public transportation. To complete the application, several steps must be followed. First, applicants must fill out Part A and consult with a healthcare provider to complete Part B. Healthcare professionals such as physicians, nurse practitioners, and psychologists are qualified to verify the applicant’s disability. It is crucial that this application be submitted in person at the Metro Transit Accessibility Center, as applications sent by mail or fax are not accepted. An in-person assessment will determine the applicant’s eligibility based on how their disability affects their ability to use public transport. Additional information such as contact numbers, emergency contacts, and details about any mobility devices or service animals should also be provided. Lastly, applicants should be aware of the importance of timely and complete submissions to avoid delays in processing.

Metro Access Application Example

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

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Fact Description
Eligibility Requirement The application is required for individuals with disabilities who cannot use accessible Metrobus and Metrorail services. A healthcare provider must verify the applicant's disability.
Application Submission Applicants must bring the completed original application to the Metro Transit Accessibility Center in person. Mailing or faxing the application is not permitted.
Assessment Appointment All assessments for MetroAccess eligibility are conducted by appointment only. Applicants must notify the center 24 hours in advance if they need to cancel.
Governing Law The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) establishes the criteria for determining eligibility for paratransit services.

Guidelines on Utilizing Metro Access Application

For those seeking to utilize MetroAccess services, completing the application form accurately is essential. Following the steps outlined below will guide you through the process of filling out the MetroAccess Application, ensuring that all necessary information is provided. After submitting the form, your application will be assessed to determine your eligibility based on the criteria set forth by Metro.

  1. Begin by reading the entire application to understand its requirements.
  2. Review the document titled Accessible Transportation Options for People with Disabilities and Senior Citizens, included with your application packet or available online.
  3. Visit a healthcare provider, like a physician or licensed psychologist, to have them complete Part B of your application. It’s important that this professional is qualified in the area of your disability.
  4. Once your application is complete, contact the Metro Transit Accessibility Center at 202-962-2700 and select option 5 for a pre-assessment interview. An appointment will be scheduled during this call.
  5. Be sure to attend the appointment within 60 days of your healthcare provider's signature. Bring the completed original application with you. Remember, do not send the application by mail or fax.
  6. If you need to cancel your appointment, provide 24 hours' notice unless there is an emergency. Missing two appointments will require you to submit a new application.
  7. Metro will evaluate your application to determine eligibility based on how your disability affects your ability to use accessible public transportation. Financial status is not a factor in this assessment.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the Metro Access Application form?

The Metro Access Application form is a required document for individuals with disabilities who wish to apply for the MetroAccess door-to-door paratransit service in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. This service is designed for those who cannot use regular public transportation due to their disability. The application must be completed by the applicant and their healthcare provider.

Who is eligible for MetroAccess services?

Eligibility for MetroAccess is determined based on how an individual’s disability impacts their ability to use accessible Metrobus and Metrorail services. A professional assessment by a qualified healthcare provider is also necessary. It's important to note that financial need does not affect eligibility.

What steps do I need to follow to complete the application?

First, read the entire application form thoroughly. Next, fill out Part A, then review the "Accessible Transportation Options" document provided with your application. After that, you and your healthcare provider need to complete Part B. Finally, call the Metro Transit Accessibility Center to schedule an assessment appointment. Be sure to bring your completed application on the day of your appointment.

Can I submit my application by mail or fax?

No, you cannot mail or fax your application. It must be brought in person to the Metro Transit Accessibility Center on the day of your appointment. Any applications sent via mail or fax will be returned and you will be instructed to contact the center for further assistance.

What if I need to cancel my appointment?

If you need to cancel your appointment, you must provide at least 24 hours' notice, except in emergencies. Missing or canceling two appointments may require you to complete a new application, and you will have to wait 120 days to reapply.

What should I do if my application is incomplete or has missing information?

If your application has missing information, it will not be accepted. Instead, it will be returned to you without processing. To avoid this situation, ensure that all sections of the application are complete before your appointment.

What happens during the assessment appointment?

During the assessment, you will be evaluated based on how your disability affects your ability to use public transportation. You should bring any mobility aids you use and be prepared to discuss your transportation needs. If transportation to the appointment is a concern, inform the Metro Transit Accessibility Center during your pre-assessment interview.

What should I bring to my appointment?

You must bring the original, completed application form. If you use mobility aids, bring those as well. It is also advisable to bring any necessary documentation from your healthcare provider that supports your application.

Can someone help me with my application?

Yes, you can appoint someone to assist you with completing the application. You will need to complete a specific authorization form to grant them permission to act on your behalf. This person can assist with scheduling appointments and handling paperwork related to your application.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Metro Access Application form can be a straightforward process, but it also comes with its fair share of pitfalls. One common mistake is not reading the entire application before starting to fill it out. It's essential to understand the requirements and the necessary documentation thoroughly. A hasty approach might lead to missing crucial information, which could delay the application process. Taking a moment to review everything helps ensure that applicants are prepared and aware of what is needed.

Another frequent oversight occurs when the healthcare provider does not complete Part B of the application. This section is vital, as it requires an authorized healthcare provider to certify the applicant's disability. Therefore, applicants must ensure that their provider is not only available but also understands the specific requirements outlined in the form. If this section remains incomplete or is filled out incorrectly, the application will be returned, causing additional delays.

Many applicants also underestimate the importance of timeliness in submitting their applications. The instructions specify that the completed application should be submitted on the same day as the healthcare provider's assessment. If the application is older than 60 days or submitted without the required information, it won't be accepted. This rule emphasizes the importance of proper timing and organization; it’s crucial that individuals manage their appointments and submission dates effectively.

Lastly, another common error is failing to communicate necessary accommodation needs in advance. If an applicant uses a mobility aid or requires transportation assistance, this must be conveyed during the pre-assessment interview. Applicants need to speak up during this stage to ensure that their needs are met during the assessment process. Ignoring this step can lead to a frustrating experience on the day of the appointment.

Documents used along the form

When applying for MetroAccess services, several forms and documents are often required in conjunction with the Metro Access Application form. Each of these documents plays a crucial role in ensuring that the application is complete and that the applicant receives the appropriate services. Below you will find a list of documents that may be necessary during the application process.

  • Identification Verification Form – This document requires applicants to provide proof of identity. Acceptable forms of identification may include a government-issued ID, health insurance card, or a utility bill showing the applicant's name and current address.
  • Healthcare Provider Certification – This form needs to be filled out by a qualified healthcare professional. It verifies the applicant's disability and outlines how it impacts their ability to use public transportation.
  • Authorization to Release Medical Information – This form grants permission for MetroAccess to obtain relevant medical information from the applicant’s healthcare providers. It’s essential for confirming eligibility based on the applicant’s health conditions.
  • Application for Reduced Fare Program – If an applicant is also interested in the Reduced Fare Program for people with disabilities, this separate application form must be filled out. It helps determine eligibility for discounts on Metro services.
  • Appointment Scheduling Form – This document is used to arrange an assessment appointment. It collects necessary information such as preferred times and contact methods to ensure smooth communication.
  • Emergency Contact Information Form – This form allows applicants to provide details about someone to be contacted in case of an emergency during transit. This ensures the safety and well-being of the applicant.
  • Service Animal Documentation – If applicable, this document outlines the role of a service animal in supporting the applicant’s disability. It may include information on training and the specific tasks the animal is trained to perform.
  • Mobility Aid Usage Verification – This document can clarify the types of mobility devices used by the applicant, such as wheelchairs or walkers, and ensures that the transportation service can accommodate them.
  • Post-Assessment Follow-Up Form – After the assessment, this document helps in gathering feedback about the process and any additional support the applicant may need moving forward.

Having these documents ready can significantly streamline the application process for MetroAccess services. By ensuring that all required forms are completed and submitted, applicants can help facilitate a smoother experience and minimize delays in receiving the necessary assistance.

Similar forms

  • Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Application: Similar to the Metro Access Application, the SSDI application requires detailed personal information and verification of a qualifying disability. Both necessitate medical documentation from a licensed healthcare provider to establish eligibility for their respective services.
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Application: Like Metro Access, the SSI application involves collecting comprehensive financial and medical information to assess an individual's need and eligibility. Both forms aim to support individuals with disabilities through social services.
  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accommodations Request: This document establishes a claim for necessary adaptations, requiring individuals to provide evidence of their disabilities. Both the ADA request and the Metro Access Application serve individuals who cannot fully use standard services due to their disabilities.
  • Housing Authority Disability Accommodation Request: Individuals seeking modifications in housing situations must submit documentation proving a disability. This request parallels the Metro Access Application in terms of the necessary supporting medical evaluations and the focus on improving accessibility.
  • Medical Transportation Request Forms: These forms request transportation services for patients with disabilities, akin to the Metro Access Application. Both require healthcare provider verification of the individual's condition and need for accessible transport services.
  • Medicaid Application for Long-Term Services and Supports: Like the Metro Access Application, this document requires detailed personal information and verification of disability and medical needs. Both applications ultimately aim to facilitate access to essential support services for eligible individuals with disabilities.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Metro Access Application form, there are important dos and don'ts to keep in mind to ensure a smooth process.

  • Do read the entire application thoroughly before beginning.
  • Do complete Part A of the application yourself or with the help of an authorized representative.
  • Do ensure that a licensed healthcare provider completes Part B.
  • Do call to schedule your assessment interview as instructed after completing your application.
  • Don't mail or fax the application; submit it in person only.
  • Don't forget to bring the original, signed application with you to your appointment.
  • Don't submit applications more than 60 days old.
  • Don't bring children to the appointment unless they are the applicant.

Following these guidelines will help streamline your application process. Adhering to the application procedures is crucial for timely processing and successful eligibility determination.

Misconceptions

Understanding the Metro Access Application form is crucial for those who need this service. However, there are some misconceptions that can lead to confusion. Here are eight common myths about the application process, debunked for clarity.

  1. You can mail or fax your application. Many people believe they can submit their applications through the mail or fax. This is incorrect. The application must be submitted in person at the designated Metro Transit Accessibility Center.
  2. Financial need is a factor in eligibility. Some assume that financial status affects their eligibility for MetroAccess. This is false. Eligibility is determined solely based on how a disability impacts your ability to use the public transportation system.
  3. All medical professionals can certify your disability. It's a common misunderstanding that any doctor can complete the application. In reality, only specific healthcare providers—like licensed nurse practitioners, optometrists, and licensed psychologists—are qualified to sign off on your disability.
  4. You can attend your appointment without your mobility device. Some think it’s okay to show up without their mobility aids. This is not advisable. Bringing any necessary mobility devices to your assessment is important, as it helps assess your needs accurately.
  5. Submitting an incomplete application is acceptable. Many applicants believe that missing parts of the application can be rectified later. This is incorrect. Incomplete applications will be returned without processing.
  6. You can bring anyone to your appointment. Some assume they can bring friends or family to the assessment. However, only the applicant and, if necessary, their agent may attend unless the child is the applicant.
  7. Appointments can be rescheduled without notice. Many think that they can cancel their appointments at any time without consequence. This is a misconception. You must provide at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations.
  8. You can reapply immediately if you miss an appointment. Some believe it's easy to just reapply after a missed meeting. This is misleading. If you miss or cancel two appointments, you must wait 120 days to reapply.

By understanding these facts, applicants can navigate the Metro Access Application process more smoothly and avoid unnecessary delays.

Key takeaways

Filling out and submitting the Metro Access Application form is essential for individuals with disabilities seeking transit services. Here are key takeaways to guide the process:

  • Complete the Application: Carefully fill out each section of the application form, especially Part A, ensuring all personal details are accurate.
  • In-Person Assessment: An in-person assessment is necessary. This assessment will determine eligibility based on how your disability affects your ability to use public transportation.
  • Health Provider Involvement: Have a qualified healthcare provider complete Part B. Accepted providers include physicians, nurse practitioners, and licensed clinical psychologists.
  • Appointment Scheduling: Call 202-962-2700 and select option 5 to schedule your assessment. Remember that the application must be completed within 60 days of your healthcare provider's signature.
  • No Faxing or Mailing: Do not mail or fax your application. You must bring the original signed document to your appointment.
  • Cancelation Policy: Provide at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel your appointment, to avoid penalties. Missing or canceling two appointments means a new application will be necessary.
  • Eligibility Criteria: Eligibility is determined based on functional abilities, not financial need. Be prepared to discuss your mobility needs during the assessment.
  • Bring Necessary Items: If you use mobility aids, please bring them to the assessment. If you need transportation to the appointment, inform the Metro Transit Accessibility Center during your initial call.
  • Age Requirement: The minimum age to apply for Metro Access services is five years old. Keep this in mind when completing the application.

By following these steps and understanding the requirements, applicants can ensure a smoother process when accessing necessary paratransit services.