Patient Assisted Travel Scheme (PATS)

About Patient Assisted Travel Scheme (PATS)

Patient Assisted Travel Scheme (PATS) provides assistance to people in the country who are required to travel more than 100 kms (one way) to obtain the nearest available medical specialist treatment not available locally, via telehealth or from a visiting service. PATS provides a subsidy only, it does not cover all of the costs associated with travel to a specialist appointment. PATS is administered through country hospitals across Western Australia (WA). Staff from country health services are able to assist patients to coordinate multiple appointments and book travel and accommodation where necessary.The type of assistance offerred includes travel and accommodation allowance and financial assistance for an escort or attendant if needed to accompany the patient.nReferrals for PATS assistance are made by General Practitioners at the time of making the referral to the medical specialist. The application form is then taken by the patient to his/her local hospital for approval.