FORT FRANCES – Riverside Health Care is launching a specialty and diagnostic shuttle service between La Verendrye General hospital in Fort Frances and Atikokan, and medical facilities Thunder Bay.
In a release issued on Tuesday, the organization said the service will be provided to patients in need of transportation to health appointment at the outskirts of the district, and could include diagnostics, such as a visit to a pacemaker clinic or an MRI, cancer care, mental health meetings and other qualifying health-care needs at specialty clinics in the area.
“We are excited to be able to improve the health of our communities by expanding their access to critical care,” said Joanne Ogden, Riverside Health Care’s quality assurance auditor and OHT executive, in a release issued to media.
“This opportunity will allow many individuals in need of services they can’t access within our district to get the care they need without worrying about the restriction of logistics or expenses that may have previously prevented their travel.”
Patients are expected to cover some of the costs of the shuttle service, and are responsible for their own accommodation costs should the trip require an overnight stay.
The one-way price is $55 from Fort Frances to Thunder Bay and $35 from Atikokan to Thunder Bay. The fee does include one support escort for those needing assistance.
The schedule is approximate and is dependent on weather and traffic conditions. Hospital officials noted additional stops may be possible, upon request. Those living outside of Fort Frances and Atikokan may call for more information and about coordination to the departure zone.
“Leveraging other existing transportation programs at Riverside Health Care and with partner organizations, we are able to reach across the district and into remote or rural areas to ensure participation is possible for all,” said David Black, director of community services.
“We’re excited about the potential for this to enable better outcomes for our most vulnerable community members.”
For more information or to find out if you are qualified to reserve your ride, individuals can reach out via email at [email protected], or call (807) 271-0650 (weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.).
A printable waiver and more details can be found at riversidehealthcare.ca/regional-transportation.
