Patient Transport Advice service (PTAS)

The Patient Transport Advice service (PTAS) offers a central phone number for people to access non-emergency patient transport services in Devon. PTAS will take bookings from patients and NHS staff between 7am – 6pm, Monday to Friday (except bank holidays). The service is funded by the Integrated Care Board (ICB) and provided by Devon County Council.

Patients are still encouraged to make their own way to NHS appointments wherever possible. However, if they are too unwell to travel by car, taxi, public transport, or community transport, they can contact the Devon Patient Transport Advice Service (PTAS) to see if they are eligible for non-emergency patient transport. Those who normally use the service and have already been assessed should also use this number. Eligibility is based on clinical need, not affordability.

Help with travel costs (HTCS)

Patients (and sometimes their escort) who are under the care of a consultant or who have been referred by their GP, dentist or optician may be entitled to help with travel, parking and toll costs. Help is available to anyone who receives:
  • Income support
  • Income based Job Seekers Allowance
  • Income related Employment and Support Allowance
  • Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
  • A NHS Tax Credit exemption certificate
  • Universal Credit (not all claimants, please check on the NHS website)
  • On a low income and is named on certificate HC2 or HC3 - to apply for a certificate, complete form HC1
 

On a tight budget? poster

Patient Transport in Devon poster

Alternatives to Health Funded Transport 

Public transport - bus, train or coach

For bus and train routes, connections and times please contact Traveline by calling 0871 200 2233 (calls from landlines cost 12p per minute) or by visititing the Traveline website.  You can also visit the Devon County Council - Travel website for advice and information on using public transport. If you have a bus pass or rail card, you may be able to choose an appointment time when you can use your pass for free or reduced price travel.

Stagecoach offer a number of discounted tickets for people with long term conditions.

Community Transport and Volunteer Car Schemes

Information on community transport and volunteer car schemes operating in Devon can be found on the Devon Services website.

Car Share Devon is a free website which matches drivers and passengers from across Devon who are doing the same of similar journeys. You can register online to enjoy the benefits of meeting new people, reducing congestion and saving money.

 

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