Media Release
8 November 2012
New Zealand Red Cross Community Transport Westport
New Zealand Red Cross in conjunction with West Coast District Health Board and Buller REAP are pleased to announce the
trial of a Community Transport Service from Westport to Grey Base Hospital.
This service provides transport to people who cannot otherwise afford or arrange to attend medical appointments at Grey
Base Hospital. The service is focused on senior citizens (65+) in the first instance, but is open to individuals who can
demonstrate need or are referred to the service by a health provider.
The intention of the Community Transport Service is to reduce the total number of people who are unable to attend
hospital appointments due to transport issues thus reducing the number of ‘Did Not Attend’ at scheduled hospital
appointments and increasing the health of the community through on going medical treatment. There is no change to the
outpatient clinics at Buller Health as a result of this new service.
During the trial period this service will operate one day a week which will be that of highest demand as per the clinic
lists at the hospital. Because of this, the service may operate on different days week to week. The booking office at
the Grey Hospital is already grouping the bookings to late morning – early afternoon so the van can meet the scheduled
appointment times.
At this stage the option of using the van to shop or visit in Greymouth is not available.
As this service has just commenced it is difficult to determine the level of patient usage. A mid trial review will
happen in mid December to make any changes that may be needed and the trial will be evaluated at the end of January. One
of the key indicators for the trial will be the number of patients using the service.
If you would like to know more about using this service please ask your GP or call Buller REAP 030789 7659.
If you would like to volunteer as a van driver please contact Janis Lennon, Buller Red Cross on 027 258 6698.
ENDS