Just Ask: What Transportation Options Are Available for Medical Appointments?
Hayley Toth | Sunshine Coast Resource Centre
Nearly one in five British Columbians report that transportation challenges have made it difficult to access medical care, and for many people on the Sunshine Coast, getting to an appointment is not as simple as it should be. Specialist care is often located in Vancouver, and even travelling to local appointments can be complicated by limited bus schedules, mobility issues, or the cost of travel. These barriers can make it harder for people to receive timely care — but there are programs designed to help.
The Travel Assistance Program (TAP BC) helps eligible residents offset transportation costs when they must travel within the province for non‑emergency specialist medical care that isn’t available in their community. A doctor, nurse practitioner, or specialist must complete the required form before travel. For general inquiries, you can call 1 800 663-7100.
For ferry travel, TAP can be used when booking through BC Ferries. Travellers select their route and travel dates, enter all passengers, choose “Travel Assistance Program (TAP)” under passenger details, and then pick the “reservation only” fare when selecting their sailing time. You must present your completed TAP form (including the TAP confirmation number) along with your booking confirmation when you arrive at the terminal. The booking is not valid without a completed TAP form. Some people may also qualify for Medical Assured Loading (MAL), which allows passengers with a letter from a medical practitioner to bypass long waits at the terminal when medically necessary. For more information visit bcferries.com/book-sailings/medical-assured-loading.
For those who cannot drive or use public transit, volunteer driver programs offer essential support. The VCH Volunteer Drivers Program provides transportation to medical appointments locally or in Vancouver for people who have no other means of travel. Rides must be arranged in advance and fees apply. They can be reached at 604‑885‑8517 or 604‑741‑0726. The Volunteer Cancer Drivers Society offers safe, reliable transportation specifically for cancer patients travelling to treatment appointments. For more information or to book a ride, visit volunteercancerdrivers.ca or call 604-515-5400. These programs rely on volunteers — even offering one ride a month, whether on the Coast or into Vancouver, can make a meaningful difference in someone’s life. If you wish to volunteer, we encourage you to reach out to the organizations directly.
There are also community‑based supports on the Coast, such as Dial‑a‑Dog, which provides transportation for appointments, errands, and outings. They also offer walks and delivery of essentials. To learn more about services and costs, call 778‑549‑8664 or visit dialadog.ca.
For seniors in Pender Harbour who need to get to Sechelt for medical appointments or everyday errands the Pender Harbour Seniors Link offers a free, accessible minibus service from Tuesday to Thursday for adults 60+. The service provides a single round‑trip journey with stops between Egmont and Sechelt. To learn more, visit penderharbourhealth.com/patient-transportation/ or contact Haida Bolton at haida.bolton@penderharbourhealth.com or 604‑212‑2232.
Accessing medical care often involves more than just the appointment itself. Reliable transportation can make a significant difference, and these supports help reduce the stress of getting to and from appointments. A general overview of transportation options on the Sunshine Coast is available in our Transportation Resource Guide at resourcecentre.ca/plan/resource-guides/.
Seniors who would like personalized guidance on transportation options can reach out to our Seniors Community Connector, Tanis, at scc@resourcecentre.ca or 604‑885‑4088. Just ask – we’re here to help.