The Nationals WA have made an election promise to invest the largest ever increase to the Patient Assisted Travel Scheme (PATS), boosting the program by $100 million over four years.
PATS provides financial subsidies for regional residents to reduce the cost of accessing healthcare services that are not available locally, but the Cook Labor Government’s current program leaves individuals hundreds of dollars out-of-pocket.
The Nationals $100 million investment is part of their vision to ensure that all West Australians, regardless of where they live, have access to high-quality healthcare without being hit financially.
Lachlan Hunter, Nationals WA candidate for Central Wheatbelt said the program will be expanded to include more health services and subsidies would also be increased significantly.
“For the first time, regional people will be able to access allied health and dental under PATS.
“We will also increase the fuel subsidy from 26 cents to 40 cents per kilometre and lift the accommodation subsidy from $110 to $150 per night.
“This is the most significant investment into PATS since its inception in 1978 and it is well overdue.” Mr Hunter said.
“Under Labor, if you live in the Central Wheatbelt and your child needs to see a dentist or access allied health services, you will be totally out of pocket for the travel and accommodation costs to access these services in Perth.
“Now, under The Nationals’ plan, that family will be reimbursed to reflect a realistic proportion of the costs for fuel, flights, or hotel accommodation while you are away from home.”
Mr Hunter added that the increased subsidies would go along way for people who are struggling during a cost-of-living crisis.
“This is just one way The Nationals WA are supporting those who are struggling with the rising cost of living.”
Mr Hunter added that this investment to PATS would help remove barriers to people accessing healthcare, and lead to healthier happier communities.
“We know that all too often, people go without treatment because it is too hard to travel or too expensive, and we want to ensure we’re doing everything in our power to remove these barriers.”
The $100 million investment will be funded over four years under a revitalised Royalties for Regions program.
