Transport issues
Many community based transport services have developed around Australia. Health professionals or local councils may have information about community transport services in the area. A patient with a family member can travel together. Fees are very reasonable and are income based.
Taxi companies provide vehicles which can accommodate the physical needs of people with disability, particularly those who use wheelchairs. They usually need to be booked in advance. All Australian states and territories have taxi subsidy schemes for people with disability that restricts their capacity to use public transport.
Disability stickers
Reserved car park spaces are often available for the disabled. These are helpful when walking becomes difficult. Disabled parking permits can help people continue to go to the shops, the cinema, a sporting oval, a concert, the parkland and / or the beach.
To obtain a disability sticker for a private car, an application form needs to be completed. A doctor's signature is required on the form and this could be a GP, the doctor at the hospital or a specialist. The forms are available from motor vehicle registration departments (the forms may also be available on their website). Some GP practices also have the forms.
Rural patients' travel assistance schemes
All states and territories have some form of transport and accommodation assistance. These schemes assist those living in rural areas to access specialist medical services by providing financial help for the cost of travel and accommodation. Ask someone from the healthcare team for information on this scheme.
Resources
Related CareSearch pages
Practical information and resources
This page was created on 26 May 2009 and is due for review in May 2011