Free bridge toll program coming for patients travelling for medical reasons

Low-income Islanders travelling out of province for medical reasons will soon be able to apply to a new bridge toll program to cover the cost of the Confederation Bridge.

The program is being provided by Hope Air a national charity that provides free flights to low income people who have to travel for medical reasons in collaboration with Health PEI.

Doug Keller-Hobson, the executive director of Hope Air, said the province raised concerns to him about the cost of the bridge being a barrier to access medical services.

"It's so obvious. People going to New Brunswick or Nova Scotia have another way of travelling, but we want to erase that barrier," he said.

[He estimated between 75 to 100 passes will be needed every month.

The program is available for Islanders with medical appointments in New Brunswick or Nova Scotia.

Program starts Dec. 1

Eligibility is based on Health PEI's prior approval for out-of-province medical services, an appointment confirmation, and an income review.

Keller-Hobson said all of Hope Air's services do require a "means test," which involves an online application and a conversation with the patient.

"We go at it and we look at their circumstances now," he said.

The program begins Dec. 1.

Hope Air has been working with the province since 1988, providing flights to medical appointments to Islanders in need. Islanders travelling for medical reasons may also qualify for fare subsidies for Maritime Bus.

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