Patient Transport

Where you can please try to travel as independently as possible to and from health care appointments.

However should you need some assistance this page provides you with information on all of the transport options available as well as advice on how to choose the best one for you. You should also read any information with your appointment letter or check with the hospital or doctor.

You have the following options:

  • public transport – bus, train or coach
  • your own car or a lift from family or friends
  • community transport and volunteer car schemes
  • a taxi
  • NHS supported non emergency patient transport

Making appointments

Set times and dates that suit you. Think ahead, if you are going to somewhere for the first time and allow some extra time to park or find the correct department. You can ask for appointments at times to suit the transport options which are available to you and to minimise your costs. Staff will try to accommodate you if possible.

Public transport

Details on routes, connections and times are listed below. Ask for ‘a guide to catching a bus or train’, ring ‘My Devon’ on 0845 155 1004 or visit www.traveldevon.info

Devon Hospitals

For travel information for hospitals please contact:

Using taxis

Some taxi companies have wheelchair-accessible vehicles. One fare covers you and your friends/family travelling to support you and it takes you door to door which is often the quickest option. Ask friends, neighbours and community transport for recommendations.

NHS supported patient transport

Transport may be available to patients who have a current physical or mental health condition or learning disability such that they require the skill or support of Patient Transport Services staff to leave their home or on the journey or where it would be detrimental to the patient’s condition or recovery if they were to travel by other means.

You can book via the phone:

  • Devon (North and East) and Plymouth: 0345 155 1009
  • South Devon, Torbay and Teignbridge: 01803 656 777

Where possible try to book from two weeks to 48 hours before your appointment.

Each time you book you will be asked questions to assess your eligibility.

If your appointment time is changed or cancelled, please contact the transport team to update them.

If you wish to appeal against a decision, please ask to speak to the service manager.

Frequent journeys to NHS treatment

Extra help is provided for patients travelling frequently for NHS treatment – three or more trips in one week or 10 or more in one month. Staff or patients can make bookings on the numbers above.

Got a bus pass or rail card?

You may be able to choose an appointment time when you can use your pass.

Can travel costs be refunded?

Check costs and reclaim rules at your destination before you book your transport.

Help with travel costs

You may be eligible to receive support with your travel costs, please find further information on the links below;

Appointment changed or cancelled? Make sure you also change your travel plans.

Published: June 2022