Home / Health / 83-Year-Old Drives 4 Hours for Medical Tests
83-Year-Old Drives 4 Hours for Medical Tests
30 Oct
Summary
- An 83-year-old drove himself four hours for medical tests.
- He was refused non-emergency transport by the ambulance service.
- Changes are underway to improve the Welsh Ambulance Services Trust.
An 83-year-old man, Charles Swift, who is a recovering cancer patient and has suffered two heart attacks, was compelled to drive himself on a four-hour round trip for medical tests. Swift lives in Borth, Ceredigion, and was referred to Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, a journey of 70 miles.
His request for non-emergency transport was initially denied by the Welsh Ambulance Services Trust (WAST) because he owned a car. This led to significant distress, with Swift questioning the policy. On another occasion, his transport was cancelled last minute, forcing him to miss an appointment.
WAST stated that increasing demand strains resources, leading to cancellations. They are implementing a significant improvement program and have updated processes and training for their call-handling teams. Hywel Dda University Health Board generally expects patients to arrange their own transport, with non-emergency patient transport provided only if specific eligibility criteria are met.
Community transport services are also experiencing increased demand due to cancellations by the ambulance service. Dolen Teifi, a local charity, has noted stretched capacity and has stepped in to help a third of cancelled bookings. Councillors are advocating for a better hospital transport system in rural areas, emphasizing the need for improved collaboration between health boards and ambulance services.
