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GP letter

Posted By violetbr36

"GP letter"

About: Patient Assisted Travel Scheme - WACHS Goldfields

(as the patient),

Once  again, PATS has totally made me go into panic mode. I have to fly, as I have various medical conditions that make driving or trains a very painful trip.  This time they wanted to know why I couldn't fly. Again. I believe my spouse *only* sent them my GP's letter three times!

Oh, too old. Luckily I got an emergency appointment at our clinic. They sent the letter, and we have yet to hear back.  We are supposed to leave shortly!

Why why why do they do this?! I feel we probably won't hear back in time.

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Responses

Response from Alicia Michalanney, A/Director, Kalgoorlie Health Campus, WA Country Health Service 2 weeks ago
Alicia Michalanney
A/Director, Kalgoorlie Health Campus,
WA Country Health Service

Leader of the teams and services at the Kalgoorlie Health Campus

Submitted on 17/04/2024 at 2:22 PM
Published on Care Opinion at 2:33 PM

picture of Alicia Michalanney

Dear violetbr36

Thank you for reaching out with your story.

I agree that it is exceptionally stressful to attend medical specialist appointments, and the logistics are increased when having to not only travel, but also coordinate all the requirements of the Patient Assisted Travel Service (PATS) too, especially when the team are required to follow-up on what must seem like repetitive requests to ensure that they meet the very strict policies and guidelines.

I am sorry for the stress and frustration caused, I know your appointment has been now, but if there is anything that you think our staff could consider to improve to support patients using the service in line with these policies please don’t hesitate to reach out to me on either 9080 5817 or Alicia.Michalanney@health.wa.gov.au.

Kind regards

Alicia Michalanney
Director Kalgoorlie Health Campus

  • {{helpful}} {{helpful == 1 ? "person thinks" : "people think"}} this response is helpful

Update posted by violetbr36 (the patient)

Thank you, Alicia. We're going to Perth again in the coming months, so if we have any more problems, we'll reach out to you!

Thanks,

violetbr36

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