"Approval process"

I recently had a knee operation in Perth, as this type of operation is not offered in Broome. I was required to use a straight leg brace with partial weight bearing on crutches post discharge (and for a minimum of 6 weeks).

Despite having a letter from my surgeon stating that it was essential for my safe mobilisation and travel, for my partner to accompany me as an escort, our application for reimbursement of their airfare has been declined twice.

Several days after coming home from Perth, I collapsed and required an ED review, with a subsequent 8 day admission for pain control, OT assessment and physiotherapy. I was also diagnosed with a clot in my leg. It has been an incredibly stressful time for our family and although the PATS staff have been polite in their emails, it is very frustrating that our application has been repeatedly declined even though it would appear from our supporting letter and from the pats website, that I meet the criteria (“experiencing physical impairment” and “require journey navigation to ensure safe and successful travel”).

Although we have asked for this to be escalated, we now need to contact and trouble the surgeon again for a more detailed letter, as the PATS office have informed me Qantas could have helped with my “safe travel”. I understand the health department doesn’t have an endless bucket of money, however, I really feel we are being asked to go to great lengths in addition to those already undertaken to prove our eligibility.