Accessing healthcare appointments shouldn’t be a struggle but for some people, getting to and from hospital or clinic appointments can be difficult. The Patient Transport Service (PTS) provides vital support for patients who cannot travel safely without assistance due to medical or mobility needs.
This article explains what patient transport is, who can use it and what alternative travel options are available locally if you’re not eligible.
What is the Patient Transport Service (PTS)?
The Patient Transport Service, provided by the North West Ambulance Service (NWAS), offers non-emergency transport for people who need help getting to and from healthcare appointments.
It is designed for patients who:
- Have a medical condition or disability that prevents them from travelling independently
- Require specialist medical equipment or oxygen during the journey
- Have cognitive or sensory impairments that make public or private transport unsafe
- Have a safeguarding concern raised by a healthcare professional that means they cannot travel alone
Patients receiving in-centre haemodialysis are also automatically eligible for patient transport.
You can also view the full NHS England eligibility criteria.
How eligibility is assessed
Eligibility for patient transport is based on your medical or mobility needs. However, local systems may also consider other factors, including:
- A very high frequency of treatment (for example, multiple appointments each week)
- Long distances to travel or high taxi costs
- Limited or complex public transport options
Your healthcare provider or a member of the NWAS contact centre team can help assess whether you meet the criteria.
If you’re not eligible for Patient Transport
If you have requested patient transport but have been deemed ineligible, you should still be given information about alternative travel options in your area.
These services are designed to help people who find it difficult to access public transport but do not meet the criteria for the NHS Patient Transport Service.
Community transport providers in Westmorland and Furness
Several independent organisations provide community transport options across the area. These services may charge a small fee for journeys.
Providers:
Rural Wheels – transport to your nearest town or public transport connection
- Areas Covered: All areas
- Contact: 01228 226 430
Cumbria Community Transport – group minibus hire
- Areas Covered: Eden / South Lakeland
- Contact: 01228 402811 / 01539 727001
- Areas Covered: All areas
- Contact: 01539 760001
- Areas Covered: All areas
- Contact: 0333 240 6965 (option 5)
Help with healthcare costs: The NHS low income scheme
If paying for travel or other healthcare costs is difficult, you may be able to get financial support through the NHS Low Income Scheme.
You could receive help with:
- NHS prescriptions
- NHS dental treatment
- Sight tests and glasses
- Travel to appointments
- Wigs and fabric supports
How to apply
You can apply for the scheme using one of the following forms:
- HC1 form – for partial help (based on low income eligibility)
- HC2 certificate – for full help (for those on certain means-tested benefits)
If you’re unsure which form to complete or need support with your application, you can contact:
- NHS Low Income Scheme (travel cost helpline): 0300 330 1343
- Citizens Advice Bureau: 0800 144 8848
Need more information?
If you’ve had trouble arranging transport to appointments or would like to share your experience, Healthwatch Westmorland and Furness wants to hear from you.
Your feedback helps us understand what’s working well and where local services could improve.