The application process requires you to follow six easy steps:

Step 1- complete a PATS application/claim form

To be considered for a PATS subsidy you need to provide a signed PATS application/claim form.  Complete and sign Section A and ask an eligible clinician to complete and sign Section B. 

Eligible clinicians include:

• General Practitioner (GP)
• Medical Practitioner
• Registered medical specialist
• Nurse practitioner
• Dentist for approved dental and/or cleft lip/palate treatment
• Optometrist for an appointment with an ophthalmologist
• Physiotherapist or Occupational therapist for complex wheelchair assessments and review.

For more information or assistance completing the PATS application/claim form refer to the PATS information sheet or contact your local PATS office.

Step 2 - submit your PATS application/claim form

You can submit your application in person, or by post, fax or email to your local PATS office.  Forms should be submitted as early as possible to allow for sufficient processing time.

Step 3 - assessment of application

Once received, your application will be assessed against current PATS policy and eligibility criteria to determine your eligibility and you will be notified as soon as possible, usually within 10 working days, after it has been received. Processing times can vary by regional location and are dependent on all required information being provided. You may be asked to provide more evidence to support your claim.

If approved, your local PATS office can assist with any travel arrangements and bookings.

If the application cannot be approved, a reason will be provided and you will be given information on how to lodge an appeal.

Step 4 - organising travel

PATS subsidies are provided as a financial reimbursement following approved travel.  Patients who book their own travel or accommodation must submit their tax invoices to their local PATS office after their appointment to start the claim process.

If you require assistance to book travel and/or accommodation or require financial assistance in advance, please speak to your local PATS office.

Return travel
If return travel has not been arranged you should speak to someone at the treating facility (hospital/clinic staff) about contacting your local PATS office to arrange this.  You will need the approval of your doctor or clinician to support your return application.

Step 5 - confirm attendance

If approved, you must take your PATS application/claim form to your specialist appointment and ask them to complete Section C.  You will then be required to return this form to your local PATS office.  This ensures we can confirm that you have attended the appointment.

Step 6 - claim your subsidy payment

To claim subsidy payment you must submit the following:

• a completed and signed PATS application/claim form including Section A, B and C.
• any tax invoices from PATS approved travel and/or accommodation
• other supporting documents on request

Subsidy payments should be received within 30 working days once all the required paperwork is submitted and the preferred mode of payment is identified.

Access all the forms you need to apply and claim for your subsidy.

You can find out more by reading the submitting a PATS application or claim summary sheet.