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Council Assist Hospital with Patient Transport

A pilot arrangement has been introduced at Poole General Hospital using a Borough of Poole minibus and driver to help transport patients. Patients who use wheelchairs or have other mobility problems will benefit from reduced hospital discharge waiting times.

The Borough of Poole operates purpose-built minibuses with specially trained drivers for day-care transport. In discussions with the hospital it was found that the peak time for hospital discharge transport undertaken by the Dorset Ambulance Service matched the times when Council vehicles and drivers were available.

A three month trial has been introduced to undertake local non-emergency patient transport. This will free up the Dorset Ambulance vehicles for longer-distance journeys or transport requiring specialist equipment. It should also reduce the waiting time for some patients.

Cllr Ron Parker, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Local the Economy including Transport, said: “By working in partnership with the hospital the Council is able to make more efficient use of its specialist vehicles for the benefit of residents returning home from hospital.”

Sue Sutherland, CEO for Poole General Hospital NHS Trust said: “This is an excellent example of the two organisations working in partnership to improve services for our patients.”

John McVey, Passenger Transport Manager, Transportation Services, Borough of Poole 01202 262221