AMBULANCE/HOSPITAL TRANSPORT SERVICE
Guide for Users
This information is a guide to patients for the use of hospital transport for outpatient appointments at Dumfries & Galloway Royal Infirmary. The Scottish Ambulance Service aim to provide an efficient and quality service to all patients and therefore has strict criteria for the use of this valuable resource. The criteria states that:
- Patients should be medically unfit to travel by other means
- Transport can only be offered at the discretion of your GP or Consultant
- Patients should be willing to attend their appointment
Users of the Service
The hospital ambulance services transports 1200 patients per week to hospital for outpatient appointments. It is therefore important that transport arrangements are co-ordinated with Dumfries & Galloway Royal Infirmary staff.
Are you entitled?
If you have an appointment at the hospital and you are physically unfit to travel by car, taxi bus or (train if appropriate), please contact the number provided on your appointment letter.
How can I help?
Do you know a neighbour, relative, friend who has an appointment at the hospital and finds it difficult to use public transport or cannot drive? If so, can you help or do you know someone who can!
Benefits of being independent
On average patients travelling by hospital transport will be away from home longer than necessary because of the co-ordination involved. The ambulance service cannot guarantee what time you will be collected, but do try to get you there on time. On occasion you will be taken before your appointment time because of other patients from your area.
How do I get reimbursed?
Travelling expenses are available for attending hospital appointments if you receive certain benefits, please ask at reception when you arrive at Dumfries & Galloway Royal Infirmary.