Hospital Transport

[Suefromwakey]

Although my husband still awaits his appointment for a 2nd opinion he's now been sent a different one with his consultant - no idea why as its to see same consultant that's sending him for his 2nd opinion! - anyhow he can no longer get into the car so he needs to organise patient transport,

GP gave him a number to phone but because of the current situation they are saying only to ring 3 days before any appointment so cant arrange it as yet,

He will need an ambulance style vehicle as once he's on his mobility scooter he won't be able to get off - can he request the type of transport?
Will they let me travel with him? - he can't manage without me

He has a wheelchair but I cant manage it - he's a big bloke and last time I tried I did my arm in and it took 3 weeks to get right - we can get him onto his scooter reasonably ok so he needs to stay on it.

Thanks for any advice

Sue

[Deb]

Hi Sue,

its good he has an appointment. I take a list of questions to mine as i my mind goes blank at hospital visits.

I think it depends on the transport as to whether your husband can stay on his scooter. If you ask for a wheel chair adapted vehicle the wheelchair needs to be secured to the car but the driver should help with this ( in theory !) So a scooter might not be suitable. I'm not sure about a scooter in an ambulance but the hospital should provide transport to meet his needs.

I had an appointment at the wheelchair clinic in Leeds to check my transfers and footrests recently and my husband was able to come with me. As he helps me transfer it wouldnt make sense if he wasn't there.

I'm so sorry you are struggling so much. When I was awaiting diagnosis the neurologist asked me if it was OK to say i had suspected MND so i could access all the services and get the ball rolling with mobility aids and home adaptations. I would ask what support is available and say how hard it is for you both.

Good luck and big hugs Sue,
Love Debbie x

[denise]

I think you've got to phone and explain the situation. You can't be the only ones with this problem. If they can't take his scooter they might be able to transfer him to something more suitable for transportation. The problem will be attaching the scooter to the vehicle. You never know they might be equipped to take it as more and more people use them. Think with the problems you've been having I'd phone ahead and make sure. Don't forget to ask about getting back home.
Denise xxx

[matthew55]

Don't worry, the crew of the Ambulance are top professionals who could transfer a hippo from scooter to a chair while having a cuppa. Hip Hip Hip Horary for the NHS.😁👍x