The New Mexico Va Health Care System offers several transportation options to ensure Veterans can access their scheduled appointments. This guide outlines the available programs and how to utilize them.
Transportation Programs within the New Mexico VA System
Several programs cater specifically to the transportation needs of veterans in New Mexico:
Rural Veterans Transportation Program (RVTP)
The New Mexico Department of Veterans Services (DVS) operates the RVTP, providing free round-trip transportation for Veterans in the state’s most rural counties. These include: Catron, Cibola, Colfax, De Baca, Guadalupe, Harding, Hidalgo, Lincoln, Mora, Quay, San Miguel, Sierra, Socorro, Torrance, and Union.
Eligibility: All veterans, regardless of disability status, are eligible.
Scheduling: Reservations are required at least three business days in advance. Contact DVS at 505-429-5906, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to schedule a ride.
Southeast New Mexico Veterans Transportation Network
This Roswell-based organization offers transportation services to Veterans in the southeastern region of New Mexico for medical appointments.
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. MST.
Contact: 575-622-0729 to arrange transportation.
Veteran Transportation Service (VTS)
The VTS provides wheelchair-accessible van transportation for Veteran patients within a 25-mile radius of the Albuquerque Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center and the Rio Rancho Northwest Metro VA Clinic.
Service Options:
- Door-to-door shuttle: Available on a first-come, first-served basis for appointments between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. Requires a three-business-day advance reservation.
Contact:
- Daniel Schrodt (VTS Coordinator): 505-265-1711 ext. 5438 or 7029, daniel.schrodt@va.gov
- Hugo Rodriguez (Alternate Contact): 505-265-1711 ext. 4506, Hugo.Rodriquez@va.gov
City of Albuquerque Transportation Option
Beyond VA-specific programs, the city of Albuquerque offers a paratransit option:
Sun Van Paratransit Service
This free service provides transportation within Albuquerque city limits. Veterans must complete an application and obtain a physician’s signature for approval.
Scheduling: Requires a 1-3 business day advance booking (5 days for Friday appointments).
Contact: ABQ RIDE at 505-243-7433 to initiate the application process.
Locating Additional Transportation Services
Many VA medical centers and clinics partner with local transportation providers. For information on services specific to a facility, consult the transportation resources listed on the facility’s webpage within the New Mexico VA Health Care System website.
