Mullion & Constantine Group Practice

There always seems to be confusion surrounding the allocation to patients of hospital transport - We now have clear guidelines from West Country Ambulance who provide our ambulances and car transport. They have made it clear that none of us has the 'right' to be expected to be transported free of charge to and from hospital appointments simply because of geography or distance. Unfortunately the lack of regular and reliable public transport is just one of the ways in which we pay to live in our beautiful part of the country.

However, there are some patients who may be entitled to hospital transport.  The rules state patients may only receive free transport to and from hospital if they are immobile, receiving cancer treatment, or any other treatment which may seriously affect capability for a period of time. West Country Ambulance stress that 'immobile'  means just that  - not able to move any great distance via your legs!

Unfortunately, on their own, social problems or other non-medical difficulties you may have do not fit the criteria for the provision of ambulance/car hospital transport.  In these cases please ask the surgery receptionists who will be able to give you the telephone numbers of concerns who organise hospital transport in return for a small fee.

It is worth mentioning that if you are in receipt of certain benefits you may be entiltled to a full or partial refund of any charges you may incur.  Ask at the hospital you are attending for further details of how to claim your refund - don't forget to hold on to any bus tickets or other receipts of payment as you will need these to make your claim.