Patient Travel Subsidy Scheme (PTSS) accommodation allowance expanded

Queenslanders forced to travel to access healthcare will be able to access an accommodation subsidy scheme earlier.

Premier Steven Miles says his government is making it easier for Queenslanders living in regional, rural, and remote communities to access healthcare by expanding the support available under the Patient Travel Subsidy Scheme (PTSS). Picture: Shae Beplate

Queenslanders forced to travel to access healthcare will be able to access an accommodation subsidy scheme earlier.

Premier Steven Miles said it was removing the Patient Travel Subsidy Scheme’s four-night rule following a review by Health Minister Shannon Fentiman.

He said Queenslanders should not have to worry about accommodation costs when travelling to receive healthcare.

“Removing this rule is going to potentially put hundreds of dollars back into the pockets of unwell Queenslanders and that matters to me,” he said.

“Queensland has world-class healthcare and I don’t want there to be any barriers for people who need to access it.”

Currently, people pay for their first four nights of accommodation each financial year, unless they are a minor, or hold some form of concessions card as a pensioner, senior or veterans.

The removal of the rule means that Queenslanders now receive the subsidy rate, a deduction of $70 per night.

The PTSS provides financial support to subsidise the costs of accommodation and transport for more than 95,000 Queenslanders each year.

Queensland Health Minister Shannon Fentiman says she is proud of the Miles Government’s record in breaking down barriers to healthcare for Queenslanders. Picture David Clark

The scheme’s limitations have been roundly criticised by patients who’ve used it in recent years, with one individual, 72-year-old Hugh Connell, dubbing it a ‘failing system’.

Ms Fentiman said the scheme’s expansion was a win for regional, rural and remote communities.

“We know that Queenslanders are struggling right now, and many have told us that the four-night rule is no longer affordable,” she said.

“Travelling long distances away from pets and loved ones to access healthcare can be stressful enough without the added financial pressure.

“That’s why I ordered an administrative review of our PTSS, to ensure we can make it as easy as possible for Queenslanders to get the care they need and deserve.

“I would also like to acknowledge government members from rural and regional areas who have advocated on behalf of their communities.

“We have listened and we are acting.

“I’m so proud of this change and of our government’s record in breaking down barriers to healthcare for Queenslanders, no matter where they live.”

Deputy Premier Cameron Dick said additional cost stresses could impact on a patient’s ability to recover from illness or serious injury, “which is why this measure is potentially lifesaving.”

“Removing this rule will mean Queenslanders from regional, rural and remote communities won’t have to pay for accommodation under the Patient Travel Subsidy Scheme,” the former health minister said.

“This means they will save hundreds of dollars at a time when they are away from work, their families and their community.”

Originally published as Patient Travel Subsidy Scheme (PTSS) accommodation allowance expanded