Should I use hospital transport?
The NHS likes to offer all its patients a full service. This might include the use of ‘hospital transport’ – i.e. transfers to and from home, by an NHS ambulance or taxi. It is always tempting to say yes to these things if they are offered.
But they might not be necessary – even if you are elderly. And more importantly, in practice it might be much quicker and more comfortable for you to make your own arrangements. For example, you could ask a nurse to take you in a wheelchair to the front of the hospital where a friend will pick you up. Or a family member help you walk to the car park. Either might be much more pleasant than being wheeled around in a chair (or bed), waiting ages in a holding area for a non-emergency ambulance to become available, and so on.
Also, there may be other things to do before you leave, like have a blood test or take a prescription to pharmacy. Hospital transport may have to leave so you cannot get these things done.
Similarly, arranged transport to the hospital could involve lots of waiting in the vehicle for others to be picked up as well, whereas under your own arrangements you are in control. This is because they often pick up other patients from all over your area.
So, cut out the trimmings. Leave the ambulance for emergencies. And you will probably have a better experience.
Last Reviewed on 11 March 2024