Free transport to COVID-19 vaccination appointments
If you are a West Sussex resident with no means of transport to get to and from your COVID-19 vaccination appointment, you may be able to book a free journey to help you attend.
Please book your vaccination appointment first and then call 01444 275008 to speak to a travel co-ordinator. The booking service is available between 10.00am-1.00pm and 2.00pm-5.00pm, Monday to Friday.
NHS Non-Emergency Patient Transport Service (NEPTS)
The NEPTS provides transport for treatment for all patients registered with a GP in Sussex, who have a medical reason that means they are not able to travel by another method.
It includes journeys:
- to a planned outpatient appointment
- to hospital for a planned admission
- home from hospital following discharge
- home to Sussex from hospitals in other areas of the country.
The NEPTS has eligibility criteria that must be met in order to access the service.
St John Ambulance - Non-Emergency Patient Transport Service
A patient transport service for those unable to use public or other transport due to bespoke medical conditions. Charges apply linked to mileage.
Community transport
There are a number of community transport and dial-a-ride schemes in West Sussex able to assist with travel to hospital and medical appointments. Some may have a restricted capability or require advance booking so contact the community transport provider direct to discuss your transport needs.
Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme
If you're referred to hospital or other NHS premises for specialist NHS treatment or diagnostic tests by a doctor, dentist or another primary care health professional, you may be able to claim a refund of reasonable travel costs under the Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme.
Please note that if you need to use a taxi, you should agree this in advance with the hospital or Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) before you travel.
Find further information on the NHS website.
Age UK - Take Home and Settle Service
A free service which helps vulnerable people get home from hospital safely. Age UK currently run this service from Crawley Hospital, St Richard's Hospital in Chichester, The Princess Royal Hospital in Haywards Heath and East Surrey Hospital.
For further information, visit the Age UK website or call them on 01903 717130.