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The Hospital Travel Costs Scheme

You may be entitled to help with necessary travel costs to and from hospital for National Health Service (NHS) treatment.

The Hospital Travel Costs Scheme (HTCS) is for patients who do not have a medical need for ambulance transport and who cannot afford the cost of travel.

You may be entitled to HTCS if you receive, for example, Income Support or income-based Jobseeker's Allowance. Some people receiving tax credits may also be entitled to help.

You may also be entitled to help with the travel costs of a companion if, for medical reasons, you need someone to travel with you. Their travel costs are counted as part of your travel costs.

'Are you entitled to help with health costs?' booklet

The booklet 'Are you entitled to help with health costs?' is a useful and detailed source of information. It is available from main post offices, Jobcentre Plus office or hospitals. Your local doctor, dentist, pharmacist and optician might also have a copy.

You can get a copy by ringing the Department of Health's order line.

Telephone: 08701 555 455

Monday-Friday, 8.00am-6.00pm

Quote the reference HC11.

You can also download the leaflet HC11 'Are you entitled to help with health costs?' in PDF format.

• Download 'Are you entitled to help with health costs' (PDF document, 138K) (opens new window)
• Help with PDF files

Further information

• More about travel costs on the Department of Health website (opens new window)
• Find your local Jobcentre Plus office (opens new window)