Improving patient transport services (PTS) has been a key focus this year. We have worked with the ICB to look at ways to reduce waste, improve services and make the experience better for patients.
We have lots of differences in the way we deliver PTS across the region. We want to reduce these and make services fairer and more consistent. This will make it easier for staff and patients to know how to access PTS. We have worked together to share data and solve problems with clear governance now in place.
Reducing avoidable waste
Around 16% of journeys booked by staff or patients do not end up taking place. We have worked to reduce the number of these cancelled journeys. Plans are now in place across the system improve how we book and manage journeys.
Improving access and consistency
Work is underway to make sure our rules for who can access PTS meet with national guidance. This will provide clear and more consistent access to services. It will also make sure transport is available for patients who need it most.
Supporting patient flow
This work is helping to improve patient flow in hospital. This means we can better manage demand on services. It helps support faster discharge and better use of transport services.
Patients on kidney dialysis travel lots of times each week for their care. This can be difficult and stressful. Some people use patient transport, even when other options may be better for them. This can create pressure on services and lead to unequal access.
We are working with South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust (STSFT) to test a new model. The renal pilot helped to:
- design a clear and fair offer for patients.
- make sure eligible patients knew how to claim back travel costs.
- supports patients to use transport options that suit their needs.
- reduce the use of PTS when not for a clinical reason.
- give patients more choice and control over how they travel.
By being clear on transport options and giving choice, our aim is to focus resources where we need them most. This will also improve patient experience and make sure we have greater fairness in how we use PTS.
“This pilot gives patients more choice while helping ensure transport services are there for those who need them most.”
