Manx Care says it is ‘very sorry’ after a family reported that a recovering patient had to arrange part of his journey back to the island.
The family criticised the patient transfer system earlier this week, saying the expectation that he organise travel from the Churchill Hospital to Birmingham Airport, shortly after time in ICU, was “unreasonable” and lacked compassion.
In a statement to Manx.News, Manx Care said it understood how distressing the situation must have been and stressed that patient safety and wellbeing are always the priority.
‘Usual practice’
Manx Care said: “Patient safety and wellbeing are always our priority. All patients prior to discharge will be assessed as fit to travel before leaving hospital, and we aim to ensure travel arrangements are appropriate to each individual’s clinical needs within the constraints of the travel schedules.
“We have developed travel arrangements and contracts to support patients travelling within the North West area. The provision of travel and accommodation expenses by Manx Care is governed by The National Health Service (Expenses in Attending Hospitals) Regulations 2004 (“the Regulations”).
“These Regulations provide for the payment or reimbursement of travel and accommodation expenses only where a patient is receiving NHS-provided hospital or specialist services. For journeys outside the Liverpool/North West area, it is usual practice for patients to arrange their own transport between hospital and airport and reclaim reasonable costs. However, where patients are unable to do this, or need additional support, we can arrange and fund transport in advance.
“Support is also available where clinically required, including an accompanying member of staff or funding for a family member to travel.
“We are particularly sorry to hear concerns about communication from the Patient Transfer Service. Compassionate and clear communication is essential, and we will review this feedback carefully to ensure patients and families feel better supported throughout their journey.”
