Arabic version: العائلات في المناطق النائية تسعى للتخفيف من تكاليف السفر للرعاية الطبية

Residents in north-west Queensland are expressing their concerns over the financial burden associated with traveling for essential medical care, as the Queensland government reviews its Patient Travel Subsidy Scheme (PTSS). According to ABC News, families like the Keilys are struggling to cope with the high costs of travel and accommodation required for medical appointments in Brisbane.

Tarni Keily, a primary school teacher from Mount Isa, shared her family’s experience of setting aside $1,000 every three months for their son Eli’s medical treatment. While the PTSS covers flight costs, she noted that the accommodation rebate of $70 per person, per night does not align with the current market rates, which often exceed $150. The financial strain has taken a toll on the family since Eli was diagnosed with Shwachman-Diamond syndrome.

Similarly, Julia Creek Station operations manager Kirra Kucks faces significant travel costs as she makes a weekly six-hour round trip for her breast cancer treatment. Kucks reported spending around $200 weekly on fuel and highlighted the inadequacy of the PTSS mileage allowance, which reimburses only 34 cents per kilometre. She described the disconnect between the subsidy and actual living expenses, calling for urgent changes to the scheme.

Health Minister Tim Nicholls acknowledged the government’s commitment to funding the PTSS but emphasized that a review is currently underway. This review aims to simplify the travel claims process and expedite reimbursement for patients. However, local MP Robbie Katter criticized the outdated subsidy rates, which were last updated in 2023-24, and urged for immediate revisions to better reflect current costs.

As the review progresses, families in outback Queensland remain hopeful for adjustments that will alleviate the financial burdens associated with essential medical travel, allowing them to focus on their health rather than their expenses.