Community Transport for Health

Unfortunately, where you live, can determine your level of access to transport for health services. Gaps in the health transport system mean some people are delaying appointments or are missing out altogether, reducing the likelihood that people will access treatment, receive effective care, or be diagnosed early.

Community transport programs are available in some areas of the state but are often stretched beyond capacity. This is exacerbated by inconsistencies in funding for community transport services for health related transport with an estimated 90,000 people per year being refused access!

The NSW Ministry of Health policy directive Transport for Health 2006-2011 provides a framework for improving co-ordination and efficiency in relation to non-emergency health related transport in NSW. However this policy is now out-of-date and has not been consistently implemented across NSW.

Increasing access to community transport for cancer patients will enable more affordable travel to treatment.

Ask the NSW Minister for Health − Jillian Skinner − to review and evaluate Transport for Health 2006-2011 and to ensure equitable distribution across the state of funding, taking into account population profiles, health indicators, the location of health facilities and the relevant costs of providing transport. 

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MORE INFORMATION

Briefing Paper: Community Transport for Health [PDF]
Transport for Health 2006-2011