Chapter 3: Coordinating services
Transportation services
I have a visual impairment and can no longer drive, and my brother wasn’t always available to take ad to his treatments and appointments. Sometimes friends helped, but mostly we had to arrange for a car service.
Canada is a large country. Whether you live in a city, a rural setting, or a remote location, transportation often comes with costs. Below are some of the transportation services that may be available. Click on each one to read more.
Many cities and towns offer a door-to-door transit service for people who are unable to use the transit system. Normally caregivers are permitted to accompany the person who is ill. Most companies require people to complete an application and have their healthcare provider sign a professional declaration. Often services have to be booked well in advance.
If you need to get to a larger centre, shuttle services may be available. Sometimes they require pre-booking a reservation as the seating may be limited. Or there may be a provincial or territorial organization that assists with transportation for people with disabilities, seniors, and others.
Some Canadian airlines may offer programs where the caregiver can fly for free if they are escorting a patient to a medical appointment. Call airlines directly.
Hope Air is a national charity that provides free flights to people who cannot afford the cost of an airline ticket to get to medical appointments.
Be sure to ask your healthcare team or social worker for details of services in your area.
