Patient Journey Program

At Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Services (PAMS) we have a dedicated team to help support our clients having to travel away from country for medical purposes. This also includes a team of transport drivers that are able to assist with getting patients to and from their local appointments as well.

The Patient Journey team is here to provide support to PAMS clients when travelling long distances from Newman and the remote communities for medical treatment. With staff based in Newman and Perth, the team is equipped to ensure all aspects of your medical travel are organised and help you apply for the right type of PATS subsidy for your situation. The Patient Journey team is here to help you understand what medical treatments are eligible under PATS, organise transport and accommodation bookings, as well as help you navigate the reimbursement system under PATS for medical travel undertaken within the last 12 months.  

Under PATS, patients are able to access accommodation and travel subsidies as well as access support for bringing family or a support person. The Patient Journey team is here to help you understand what you are eligible to access under the Patient Assisted Travel Scheme.                                   

Our local transport teams are here to help patients to and from their local appointments at one of our 5 clinics. The local transport team also help coordinate and transport patients from our remote communities to Newman and to Hedland to attend any medical appointments.

What we offer

  • Support for attending appointments across multiple locations
  • Assistance navigating PATS travel and funding
  • Culturally safe guidance through healthcare appointments
  • Coordination with healthcare providers to meet patient needs

Who can access this service?

This program is available to all PAMS clients that are required to travel more than 100km to access medical treatment. Our Patient Journey team are based in Newman but are available via phone to help any client at any location with transport and accommodation needs for their medical treatment.       

You may be eligible if you:

  • Have a residential address and live most often in Newman, Jigalong, Punmu, Parnngurr or Kunawarritji;
  • Come to a PAMS clinic for your health and medical services;
  • Need to travel more than 100 km (one way) for specialist care; and
  • Have a valid Medicare card and/or Health Care Card (CRN)

In some cases, limited support may be available for travel 70–100 km for renal or cancer treatments.

To learn more about the full eligibility requirements go to: WA Country Health Service - PATS subsidies     

Where services are provided

  • Newman Clinic
  • Jigalong Clinic
  • Parnngurr Clinic
  • Punmu Clinic
  • Kunawarritji Clinic

Service hours

Services are available Monday to Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm.

Funding partner

This program is funded by WACHS.

How to access the Patient Journey Program

Attend your nearest clinic, call Newman Clinic on 9111 1777. Our team can guide clients through appointments, travel arrangements and healthcare navigation.