ACC Midwest provides non-emergency ambulatory, wheelchair and stretcher transportation
As a young man working at a senior living facility in Hutchinson, Eric Labraaten saw a need for non-emergency transportation for the residents there, as well as others in the area.
So he tested his theory by starting a transportation business out of his home with just one van. Within a year, Labraaten’s business began to prosper, and he had five vans in his fleet.
ACC Midwest Transportation Manager Brianna Raether, left; President Eric Labraaten, center; and Service Manager Mike Meyer, right. ACC Midwest has grown from one van to 25 vehicles in five years. Labraaten credits his staff for the growth and their commitment to customer service. ACC Midwest offers non-emergency ambulatory, wheelchair and stretcher transportation in the counties of McLeod, Meeker, Sibley, Renville, Nicollet, Carver, Stearns, Wright and Kandiyohi. Photo by Scott Thoma
Now, five years later, the personable Labraaten has 25 vehicles, including mid- and full-size vans, buses, and even a limousine service.
And while his business was once just a room in his home, ACC Midwest Transportation is now housed in a modern, 5,000-square-foot building that is only three years old.
“What many people don’t realize is that many seniors currently riding public transportation may qualify to ride with us,” said Labraaten. “Insurance will often cover 100 percent of their medical transportation needs, such as trips to the doctor, chiropractor, dentist, physical therapy, eye doctor or other needs.”
ACC Midwest Transportation now has 25 drivers that mainly transport clients within a 30-mile radius of Hutchinson, but also serve the counties of McLeod, Meeker, Sibley, Renville, Nicollet, Carver, Stearns, Wright and Kandiyohi.
“If someone in one of those counties needs to get to an appointment in the Cities or the Mayo Clinic, for example, we can provide transportation for them,” Labraaten explained. “We provide ambulatory, wheelchair and stretcher transportation seven days a week.”
Because of its all-week availability, ACC Midwest Transportation clients use the service often.
“They are very accommodating for all needs to any location at any hour,” said Hazel and Willis W., of Hutchinson. “The drivers are all very courteous, and we would highly recommend them to everyone.”
Labraaten named his company after his three children – Alexa, Carter and Carson – using the first letter of each of their first names.
Labraaten served his country after graduating from high school, spending five years of active duty as a member of the U.S. Marine Corps, and three years in the reserves. Now he is serving individuals who otherwise find it hard to get around due to medical problems, special needs, lack of transportation, or even if their vehicle won’t start on a day they have a scheduled appointment.
Labraateen realized how important transportation was to seniors when he formerly managed an assisted living facility in Minnesota.
ACC Midwest Transportation gives non-emergency rides in McLeod, Meeker, Sibley, Renville, Nicollet, Carver, Stearns, Wright and Kandiyohi counties. Photo by Scott Thoma
“ACC Midwest Transportation is timely and makes you feel like you are part of their family,” said Bob C., of Hutchinson.
“Customer service is superior with ACC Midwest Transportation,” said Daniel I., of Hutchinson. “They have sincere concern for all clients.”
Labraaten is the president of ACC Midwest Transportation. Mike Meyer is the service manager, and Brianna Raether is the office manager. There are also 25 drivers employed with the company.
ACC Midwest Transportation is a Certified Special Transportation Provider designed to transport individuals from their residence, senior living facility, or other location to their scheduled appointment.
All drivers are trained in first aid, passenger assistance, and defensive driving. They are also up to date on HIPAA regulations, and are in accordance with the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDOT) rules and regulations.
ACC Midwest Transportation goes out of their way to make riders feel safe and comfortable. Above is one of the happy passengers. Contributed photo
“We provide a safe and comfortable ride for all of our passengers,” said Labraaten. “We also provide specialized transportation to weddings, funerals, museums and other social events.”
Labraaten Bus Service, which is run under the same management as ACC Midwest Transportation, includes five school buses and 10 full-sized vans that can be used to transport students, in both charter and public schools, to and from school or school activities or field trips within a 30-mile radius.
Midwest Premier Limo Service is the latest addition to Labraaten’s businesses. The 24-passenger limousine can be used for weddings, parties or other social gatherings.
ACC Midwest is equipped for stretcher and wheelchair transports and is available seven days a week. Photo by Scott Thoma
“I credit my staff as the reason for all of ACC’s success,” Labraaten said.
ACC Midwest Transportation is open Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m., and by appointment only after hours and Sundays.
For more information, call ACC Midwest Transportation at 320-455-9200, email them at accmidwest@gmail.com or visit their website at www.accmidwest.com.