Hospital travel costs: when you may be able to claim them back
How the Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme works for eligible NHS referrals, what journeys count and which evidence to keep.
Last reviewed: 6 July 2026 · UK guidance
In brief
The Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme can reimburse reasonable travel costs for some people referred for qualifying NHS treatment who meet the benefit or low-income conditions. It is not a general refund for every GP, dental, emergency or self-chosen journey. Rules and processes vary across the UK.
Check eligibility before travelling where possible and ask the hospital cash office or patient service what proof is needed. Keep appointment or referral evidence, tickets, mileage and parking receipts. Taxi costs or an escort usually require a clear reason rather than personal preference.
Confirm the appointment qualifies
Ask whether the journey is to NHS-funded secondary care following an eligible referral and whether the provider accepts claims. Primary-care and emergency journeys may use different transport or reimbursement routes.
Check the financial gateway
Qualifying benefits or an HC2/HC3 certificate may establish full or partial help under current rules. Bring the correct evidence for the patient on the date. Similar benefits may not be interchangeable.
Use the cheapest reasonable transport
Public transport is normally expected where suitable. If disability, clinical need, appointment time or lack of transport makes another mode necessary, ask for approval or supporting evidence. Record mileage, parking and tolls where allowed.
Explain why an escort is necessary
An accompanying person’s cost may be considered where medically necessary or where the patient is a child or cannot travel alone. Ask the clinician or service to record the need.
Claim within the deadline
Claim at the hospital when possible or use the official postal route with receipts and evidence. Ask about advance help if upfront travel cost would prevent attendance.
Ask the hospital about travel reimbursement
Use before the appointment where possible.
I have been referred for NHS treatment at [service] on [date] and may qualify for help with travel costs through [benefit or HC2/HC3]. The reasonable journey is [transport], and I need an escort because [reason]. Please confirm whether the appointment qualifies, what costs are allowed, evidence required and how to claim or obtain help before travel.
A practical checklist
- Confirm the referral and treatment are covered.
- Carry benefit or certificate evidence.
- Keep tickets, mileage and parking receipts.
- Ask for clinical evidence for taxis or escorts.
Check the current information
These are the most relevant official or specialist places to confirm live rules, availability and application details.
nhs.uk
Open official informationnhs.uk
Open official informationnhs.uk
Open official informationChoose one next action
You do not need to finish everything today. Find a relevant organisation through National Help, or save the action you want to return to in your Support Plan.
HiddenHelp explains options and helps you organise a next step. It does not decide eligibility, make awards, or replace regulated legal, medical or financial advice.