ABOUT US

Alternative Transportation for Mental Health Crisis

Pioneering Alternative Transportation Services for Mental Health Crises

RIDECARE was founded in 2021 in partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, creating the nation’s first dedicated mental health transportation system. Our mission was to fill a critical gap in care by providing safe, compassionate transport for individuals experiencing mental health crises. Since then, RIDECARE has expanded its services, reaching Kansas in 2024 and Louisiana in 2025.

We are serving Arizona through collaborations with the local law enforcement agencies. These milestones reflect our commitment to growing alongside the needs of the communities we serve.

We work closely with our partners, including law enforcement agencies, healthcare providers, and tribal organizations, to ensure seamless and secure transport for those in crisis. By alleviating the burden on emergency responders and providing trained professionals to handle these sensitive situations, RIDECARE helps de-escalate emergencies and fosters trust between individuals in crisis and the systems supporting them. Our approach prioritizes safety, dignity, and collaboration.

Why Crisis Treatment Transportation Needs an Alternative

In nearly every community, the police have been traditionally responsible for transporting individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. This can result in individuals in need of treatment having to be placed in handcuffs and transported in a patrol car. This scenario deters people from seeking help for their mental health.

In contrast, RIDECARE's vehicles are unmarked and driven by specially trained drivers who provide safe and secure transportation to the nearest treatment facility. This new transportation service has had a profound impact on

patients, making it easier for them to seek and receive treatment in a more relaxed and comfortable way without psychological harm or trauma.

Law Enforcement Officers are Advocates for Change

Law enforcement played a crucial role in driving this change with the hope of improving the efficiency and success of treatment for mental health patients. Officers understand the significance of directing individuals to appropriate services, rather than criminalizing their situation. Despite decades of following traditional practices, law enforcement officers are now advocates for changes in mental health care.

OUR
MISSION

Our mission is to transform the medical transportation system towards a person-centered approach, and to remove the stigma of mental health and addiction disorders.

TRANSPORTATION
24/7

We understand that mental health crises can happen at any time. That's why our transportation services are available 24/7, so individuals can get the help they need, when they need it.

OUR
FLEET

Our fleet consists of a variety of vehicles to accommodate the needs of our passengers. From sedans to vans, we have the right vehicle to transport clients safely and comfortably to their destination. All of our vehicles are regularly maintained to ensure reliability and safety.

SPECIALLY TRAINED DRIVERS

Our drivers are trained to handle a variety of situations and are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide compassionate care to our passengers.