There’s more financial support for Northern Rivers residents who have to travel a long way for specialist medical treatment.
The state government recently added $150million to the Isolated Patients Travel Accommodation Assistance Scheme (IPTAAS) that is for regional patients.
Clarence MP Chris Gulaptis said IPTAAS helps with transport and accommodation and other costs.
It now has many more services added and this means 10,000 more patients are eligible for support.
“Sydneysiders who need to see a specialist just hop on subsidised buses or trains. But if you have cancer in Maclean and need regular treatment in Coffs and have to stay overnight, there’s real pain on the family budget without IPTAAS,” he said.
Community charity Can Assist provides financial support to cancer patients in rural and regional areas to help access treatment and care.
“I can’t put into words the weight I see lifted when patients and our volunteers realise what the increase in IPTAAS rebates means for them,” Can Assist’s Emma Phillips said.
Go to www.iptaas.health.nsw.gov.au for more information or to lodge a claim.
