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What is NHS Hospital Transport?
NHS hospital transport services help patients who have a medical need and are unable to travel independently to and from hospital appointments. These Non-Emergency Patient Transport Services (NEPTS) are different from emergency ambulance services and must be booked in advance.
For CSF leak patients, travel can be particularly challenging due to symptoms like orthostatic headaches, dizziness, and mobility issues. If you struggle with prolonged sitting or standing, NHS transport could be an essential option.
Who is Eligible for NHS Transport?
To qualify for NHS transport, you typically need to meet specific medical criteria, such as:
- Being unable to travel by car, taxi, or public transport due to a medical condition.
- Needing medical supervision or specialist transport (e.g., a stretcher or oxygen support)
- Mobility issues that prevent you from walking unaided to a vehicle.
- Undergoing treatment that affects mobility, such as a blood patch or surgery.
Eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis, and different NHS trusts may have slightly different policies.
How to Book NHS Patient Transport
1. Check if You’re Eligible
Speak to your GP, consultant, or hospital team to determine if you qualify. Some areas have self-referral options, while others require a healthcare professional to book on your behalf.
2. Contact Your Local Patient Transport Service (PTS)
Each NHS trust has its own transport provider. You can find their contact details by:
- Checking the hospital website
- Calling your local Integrated Care Board (ICB)
- Asking your GP surgery or hospital receptionist
3. Book in Advance
It’s essential to book transport as early as possible as spaces can be limited, especially for long-distance journeys to specialist centres.
Important Tips for Using NHS Transport
✅ Book Your Return Journey: Many patients forget to arrange transport home – this is usually booked separately.
✅ Allow Extra Time: Transport may be shared with other patients, so journeys can take longer than expected.
✅ Explain CSF Leak Symptoms: If lying flat or avoiding prolonged upright time is important for your condition, make sure this is noted in your booking.
✅ Consider Alternative Transport: If you’re not eligible, options may include hospital shuttle buses, community transport schemes, or volunteer drivers.
NHS Hospital Transport and CSF Leaks
For patients with spinal CSF leaks, travelling long distances to a specialist centre can be a major challenge. NHS transport may be a crucial way to access the care you need without exacerbating your symptoms.
If standard NHS transport isn’t suitable, you may be able to request an ambulance with a stretcher if you’re unable to sit upright due to your symptoms. However, availability varies by region.
Alternative Support for CSF Leak Patients
- Hospital Travel Costs Scheme (HTCS): If you’re on certain benefits or low income, you may be able to claim travel expenses.
- Charitable Transport Services: Some charities provide patient transport for those with long-term health conditions.
- CSF Leak Support Networks: Join our Leaky Café community to ask others about their experiences with NHS transport.
Examples of London NHS Trusts Offering Patient Transport
If you need to travel to or within London for specialist treatment, here are some key NHS trusts that provide transport services:
🏥 University College London Hospitals (UCLH) NHS Foundation Trust
🚑 UCLH provides NEPTS for patients who are unable to use other forms of transport due to medical reasons.
📞 Booking line: 020 3456 7010 (Book at least three days in advance)
🔗 More information
🏥 Central London Community Healthcare (CLCH) NHS Trust
🚑 Provides transport services for eligible patients under their care.
📞 Booking line: 0300 373 5678 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 am – 5:30 pm)
🔗 More information
🏥 Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust
🚑 Imperial College Healthcare offers patient transport for those unable to travel due to medical reasons.
🔗 More information
🏥Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital (Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust)
🚑 Patient Transport Service – For eligible patients with medical needs and no other means of transport.
📞 Booking Line: 020 7188 2888 (Monday to Friday, 7:45am to 7pm)
🔗 More info on Patient Transport
If you are travelling from outside London for a specialist appointment, check with your local NHS transport provider to see if they offer long-distance transport.
Other Hospitals Offering Patient Transport
🏥 Royal Stoke University Hospital
🚑 Link Bus Service – Free hourly service between Royal Stoke University Hospital, Stone, and County Hospital (pre-booking required).
📞 Booking: 01782 813047
📧 Email: abcsupreme@abcsupreme.co.uk
🔗 More info on the Link Bus Service
🚑 West Midlands Ambulance Service – Non-Emergency Patient Transport
Provides transport for eligible patients who need medical support during transit.
📞 Booking & Eligibility: 0330 3800 515
🔗 West Midlands Ambulance Service – Patient Transport
🏥 Addenbrooke’s Hospital (Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust)
🚑 EMED Patient Care – Non-Emergency Patient Transport
For eligible patients in Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, and Royston.
📞 Booking: 0300 777 5555
🔗 More info on Patient Transport
If you are travelling from outside these areas, check with your local NHS transport provider to see if they offer long-distance transport.
🏥 Royal Victoria Infirmary (Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust)
🚑 Patient Transport Service – For eligible patients based on medical need.
📞 Booking: 0191 215 1515
🔗 More info on Patient Transport
Important Reminder for All Services
✔ Eligibility: Available for patients who:
- Need medical support during the journey
- Have mobility issues preventing them from using other transport
- Are parents/guardians accompanying a child to an appointment
🛑 Don’t forget! Always book your return journey separately – it’s not automatically included.
🔗 NHS Guide on Hospital Transport