Proposed changes to NHS-funded transport for non-emergency patients – which include planned cutbacks - will be presented to the public today from 2pm in the main entrance at Derriford Hospital (Thursday, February 2).

NHS Kernow says the current system is fragmented and confusing, with different providers charging different rates. 

Under the changes, one sole provider will be commissioned to run the service from October 2018.

Meanwhile NHS Kernow also plans to make savings by tightening the criteria for non-emergency patients using the service to travel to hospital and other medical appointments. Some patients who have had subsidised transport may no longer qualify. 

In particular, people who use the TAP voluntary service provided through Age UK because they do not have their own car, may find they no longer receive a subsidy from April.

Frequent travellers to hospital for all sustained courses of treatment other than renal or cancer patients could also find they no longer qualify for discretionary payments.