Getting to a hospital or medical appointment
If you have an appointment, test or treatment at hospital, you will usually need to get there yourself.
You could ask a friend or family member to take you and pick you up.
NHS patient transport
You may be able to get free, non-emergency transport if you have a medical need. This service takes people to and from hospital.
To check if you can use it, call the NHS Patient Transport Advice Centre on 01278 727444 between 8.30am and 6.30pm, Monday to Friday.
You need to book at least 2 days before your appointment.
In Somerset, transport is provided by:
- Ezec
- Transporting Somerset
- British Red Cross
Help with travel costs
You may be able to get money back for travel costs through the Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme.
You may qualify if you:
- cannot use patient transport
- cannot afford the travel costs
- cannot get help from friends or family
There are rules you must meet. Check the Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme page for full details.
Public and Community Transport
If you cannot use NHS transport, there are other options.
Transporting Somerset offers public transport services.
If you are disabled or cannot drive for medical reasons, you can apply for a concessionary bus pass. This can give free or cheaper travel at certain times.
You can also use a Better Journey Card to let the driver know you may need extra help.
Community Transport can help if public transport does not meet your needs.
These services:
- support people and community groups
- offer vehicles with disabled access
- give advice about travel options
Different schemes operate in different areas of Somerset.