Free ferry passes available for some off-Island medical travel

Islanders travelling out of province for certain medical services can now apply to have their ferry fare covered.

Hope Air in collaboration with Health PEI will pay for a Northumberland Ferries Limited pass for Islanders in financial need to attend medical appointments in Nova Scotia, Health PEI said in a news release.

• Free bridge toll program coming for patients travelling for medical reasons

The P.E.I. government and Hope Air have collaborated on out-of-province travel support since 1988, first with the Hope Air Flights Program and then the Confederation Bridge Toll Program last December. In 2016, 98 flights were provided to eligible Islanders requiring out-of-province health-care services, and 284 bridge passes have been issued since December.

The average gross household income for the Islanders assisted by Hope Air in 2016 was $22,123, according to Health PEI.

$45K set aside in budget

Government's 2017-18 operating budget includes $45,000 for out-of-province travel assistance.

Islanders may be eligible for the free ferry pass based on prior approval for out-of-province medical services from Health PEI, appointment confirmation, and household income review.

To apply, visit Health PEI's website or call Hope Air toll-free at 1-877-346-HOPE (4673).

Hope Air, a national charity, has arranged more than 116,000 flights for Canadians in need since it was founded in 1986.

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