A specialist appointment can take four hours door to door: the drive, the parking, the walk, the wait, the walk back. If any part is hard, the appointment gets cancelled. Then the specialist writes "did not attend" and the referral closes.
The options
- Community transport. Council or community schemes, often low cost, booked ahead.
- Taxi or rideshare. Flexible, but the driver may not help with mobility.
- NDIS transport. Where transport is in the plan and relates to disability.
- Door-to-door care transport. A carer drives, helps you in and out, and can wait.
- Hospital patient transport. For eligible patients, usually medical need based.
What to check before you book
- Can the vehicle take a walker, wheelchair or frame?
- Will the driver help you to the door, or only to the kerb?
- Is waiting included, or charged separately?
- What happens if the appointment runs late?
- Can someone travel with you?
- Is the return trip booked?
Planning the appointment
Book the return before you go. Ask the rooms how long the appointment usually takes, and add buffer. Take the phone number for the clinic in case you are delayed.
Bring the medication list, the referral and the concession card. Ask for a summary or a letter at the end, especially if you are seeing someone new.
If you need to cancel
Call the rooms as early as you can. A missed appointment costs the clinic and delays your care. Ask to be put on a cancellation list for an earlier slot.
Ask about telehealth
Some follow-ups can be done by phone or video. It is not right for every appointment, but it is worth asking, especially for a review that does not need a physical examination.
The cost
Community transport is often the cheapest. Taxis and care transport cost more but are more flexible. If cost is a barrier, ask the clinic's social worker or My Aged Care about transport assistance.
Common questions
Can a carer wait during the appointment?
Yes, by arrangement. Ask for the waiting cost before you book.
Can you take a wheelchair?
Tell us the type and size. Some chairs fold and some do not.
Is transport covered by the NDIS?
Where it is in the plan and relates to disability. Ask your plan manager.
What if the appointment runs late?
Agree the waiting arrangement in advance. A carer may need to leave for another booking.
Can someone come with me?
Often yes. Tell us when you book.
Sources and further reading
This guide is general information, not medical, legal or financial advice. If you are worried about your health, call your GP. In an emergency, call 000.