THE Bays Hospital, Mornington, is looking for volunteer drivers to help patients get to hospital.
“While family and friends transport most patients to and from medical appointments, some have to rely on public transport, have limited mobility or are too unwell to drive themselves,” nursing director Anita Woods said.
“Our two patient transport vehicles, both donated by Bernie Taylor of the Grand Hotel Mornington, are enabling nursing staff to be increasingly mobile and reach patients in the community to provide better care.”
Ms Woods said the vehicles enables the hospital’s prostate cancer specialist nurse and breast care nurse to counsel and support patients in their own homes.
She said The Bays wanted to establish a volunteer patient transport program. “Patient transport volunteers provide companionship and support to people who would otherwise find it difficult to attend medical appointments.
“The patient transport program is a lifeline for patients who have no other way of getting to and from our hospital.”
Ms Woods said volunteer drivers could elect to drive mornings or afternoons. “On average, drivers would volunteer for one four-hour shift a week.”
Anyone interested in being a patient transport volunteer can call The Bays volunteer coordinator on 5970 5308 or email volunteer@thebays.com.au
First published in the Mornington News – 4 April 2017
