Dane Baumann proposes Ohio program to subsidize senior medical transportation costs

The City Council of Mount Vernon, Ohio, convened on March 24, 2025, to discuss several pressing issues, with a significant focus on transportation challenges faced by the community's older population.

The meeting began with a presentation by Dane Baumann, the net supervisor for Job and Family Services (JFS). Baumann outlined a new initiative aimed at creating a framework to help subsidize transportation costs for residents needing to travel for medical appointments. He highlighted the financial burden many elderly individuals face, particularly those on fixed incomes who do not qualify for Medicaid or the NET program.

Baumann shared that some residents have reported costs as high as $3,400 for round trips to medical facilities in Columbus and Cleveland. He emphasized that Medicare does not cover transportation expenses, leaving many seniors without viable options to reach necessary healthcare services. This issue was brought to the attention of state representatives during a legislative meeting, where Baumann advocated for solutions to bridge this transportation gap.

The proposed program aims to be the first of its kind in Ohio, focusing on mobility management to assist those in need. Baumann expressed his commitment to seeking support from the council as the initiative develops.

The meeting concluded with a sense of progress, as council members acknowledged the importance of addressing these transportation challenges for the community's vulnerable populations. Further discussions and updates on the program are expected in future meetings.