We worked with SA Health through Office for Ageing Well to explore the travel experiences of older people attending hospital or specialist appointments across metropolitan and regional South Australia, regardless of whether the travel was by bus, private car, government or council service, or any other means.

The findings from this study will be shared broadly with local health networks, local councils, hospitals, not-for-profit organisations and other service providers.

What was involved

This project was undertaken across two stages, the first being an online survey which took participants approximately five minutes to complete.

Following completion of the survey, participants were asked if they would like to participate in a focus group to discuss at length about some of the concerns and opinions raised in the survey.

The Plug-in hosted focus groups across the state in October and November 2019, and participants received a $30 gift card in recognition of their involvement.

Eligibility

As with all our projects, The Plug-in has a range of selection criteria for participants. To be eligible for this project, participants were:

  • Aged 50+ and have attended a hospital appointment or specialist appointment in the past 12 months anywhere within South Australia.

OR

  • Had arranged transport for a person aged 50+ (for example a family member or friend) so they could attend a hospital appointment or specialist appointment within South Australia in the 12 months prior.

AND

  • Had online access to complete the survey

Thank you to everyone who took part in the survey and focus groups — your contributions are greatly valued and will make a difference to the lives of older South Australians by helping providers in the health system better understand you and others like you, and in turn, improve the provision of transport services for older people across the state.

For further information please contact us on 08 8224 5526 or email connect@theplugin.com.au