- Patient Assisted Travel Scheme expanded to include selected specialist allied health and specialist dental services
- More country patients to have access to support for specialist healthcare services
- Part of the Cook Labor Government’s $34 million commitment to supporting rural and remote patients requiring care away from home
The Patient Assisted Travel Scheme (PATS) eligibility has been expanded to include selected specialist allied health and dental services, delivering on the Cook Labor Government’s commitment to the largest ever expansion to the scheme.
PATS supports more than 40,000 regional Western Australians each year by reducing the cost of accessing specialist health services.
This expansion, which started on July 1, builds on more than $34 million invested by the Cook Labor Government to support those needing medical care away from home.
Country patients eligible for PATS can apply to subsidise the cost associated with travel, accommodation and/or a support person where required.
Claims will also be accepted for previous eligible appointments attended from 1 January 2026.
For more information about PATS including eligibility and how to submit a claim, visit www.wacountry.health.wa.gov.au/Our-patients/Patient-Assisted-Travel-Scheme-PATS
As stated by Health Minister Meredith Hammat:
“We know how important it is for regional Western Australians to access healthcare when and where they need it.
“WA is the largest health jurisdiction in the world and specialist services aren’t always nearby, that’s why we’re boosting investment in PATS.
“In 2025, we increased the fuel subsidy by 54 per cent, and we’ve continued to build on that with an increase of more than $15.5 million to expand PATS eligibility.
“The inclusion of specialist dental and allied health services is another way we’re ensuring regional Western Australianshave additional support so they can focus on their health and wellbeing.”
