Country health newcomer praised for PATS promptness

Our Patient Assisted Travel Scheme (PATS) helps to make it easier for country patients travelling for care.

The program provides accommodation and travel subsidies to help reduce out of pocket expenses for country people travelling to access health care.

For new PATS Clerk Natalie Barwick, her lightning-fast approach to processing subsidy reimbursements has been celebrated by colleagues and patients.

Patient Kathleen recently reached out to express her gratitude for Natalie’s same day processing of a subsidy reimbursement.

“First day and you totally smashed it,” Kathleen said.  

“I was so glad to get a phone call, letting me know what was happening – you were so helpful and professional.”

WA Country Health Service Director Outpatient Reform and Access Operations Steph Waters said most people wouldn’t be aware of the WACHS wide PATS team effort that occurs behind the scenes to support patients.

“We have an amazing team helping to deliver reimbursements to patients,” Steph said.

“In this year alone we have helped over 35,000 patients in country WA.

“It’s team members like Nat that help remove the stress regional patients can face when they are required to travel for healthcare.

“We’re glad that Kathleen – and many patients like her – appreciate the teams working to support regional and remote patients,” she added.

To find out more about the Patient Assisted Travel Scheme, eligibility, subsidies and forms click here.