Transportation for Veterans

PLEASE READ- the link to reserve transportation is at the end of passenger requirements.

• The Veteran may use VTS transportation to appointments at the VA and authorized non-VA Community Care providers.
• All trips must be scheduled in advance. Two weeks’ notice is strongly recommended.
• VTS will confirm rides one business day prior to transportation. Access to a working telephone number and voicemail is required. If the confirmation call is unanswered, a voicemail will be left.  If VTS is unable to leave a message with estimated pickup/departure times, the Veteran will be removed from the schedule.
  • It is the responsibility of the Veteran or family member to notify the VTS Travel Office as soon as possible, but not less than 24 hours prior to any changes or cancelations of the Veteran's transportation needs.
  • Pickup times are an estimate only. If a passenger is riding with several other Veterans, pickup times will vary. Passengers must be ready for pick-up at the designated time and place. VTS drivers will only wait 10 minutes per stop, to remain on schedule.
  • Departure times are set. If Veteran is not in escort/designated area at the time of departure, passenger will be left behind. If available, VTS may transport. If VTS does not have availability, the Veteran will be marked as a no-show and be responsible for finding other means of transportation to return home.
• Veterans may have an attendant or caregiver authorized by a medical provider/clinician in the electronic patient record is permitted .
  • Guests may accompany Veterans if scheduled in advance and there is space available. Persons under the age of 18 may accompany a Veteran with medical facility director or designee permission. Children required by state law to use restraint, such as a child safety seat or booster seat are generally prohibited.
• The driver is not permitted to assist Veterans or passengers physically or medically.  
  • Passengers must be able to transfer to a seat or have an attendant for assistance.
  • Passengers may not sit on a scooter.
  • The Veteran must be able to get to their own appointment locations in the medical center without assistance from the driver.
  • Veterans in wheelchairs must have footrest during loading/unloading and transport except under special medical circumstances.
• The vehicle may only make emergency stops. Side trips or errands are not permitted.
• Passengers must always wear a seatbelt.
• Passengers are responsible to discard all trash.
• Any patient being discharged against medical advice or has not received care or service at VA will not be transported using VTS vehicles.
• Veterans who have an appointment canceled by the clinic and receive notification should notify VTS immediately to cancel their transport appointment. Failure to do so may result in a cancelation less than 24 hours in advance, which can lead to suspension.
• Service dogs only, pets are not allowed.
• No payment or tips can be made to the driver
• Any appointment delays should be reported to the VTS Travel Office as soon as possible so return transportation arrangements can be adjusted.
• Drivers may refuse transportation to any passengers for behaviors including:
  • use of foul or abusive language, intoxication, offensive hygiene,
  • posing a threat to the safety of the driver or other passengers including possession of weapons,
  • use of any type of tobacco or e-cigarette product 

Suspension of Service:

• If rules are not followed, the use of VTS services may be suspended or revoked on a permanent basis.
• Multiple no-shows and cancelations will be cause for suspension of the use of VTS transportation. 

VTS is a free transportation service. Service may be unavailable due to inclement weather or unforeseen issues. 

I have read and understand these VTS Passenger Guidelines. I am aware that if these guidelines are not followed by me or my guests, VTS service could be suspended or revoked. 

Reserve VTS Transportation

VA Veteran Transportation Service

Veteran-specific transportation services, including buses, shuttles, and wheelchair-accessible transport, are available to patients. Please contact the Veteran Transportation service to coordinate.

Contact:
Fred Wooldridge, Mobility Manager
Phone: 937-268-6511, ext. 1293

Veteran Transportation Service
https://www.va.gov/resources/veterans-transportation-program-representatives/