Operational planning for health transport of older adults in New Brunswick
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Date
2023-04
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University of New Brunswick
Abstract
Transportation to healthcare facilities can be challenging for older drivers (aged 65+) due to aging-related health issues. Volunteer Driver Programs (VDP) have emerged as an alternative for some older adults, but their capacity to meet the needs of an aging population is uncertain, given little is known about existing demand. This thesis utilized administrative health data to develop metrics for trip rates, distances, and health purposes for older adults. 368,525 hospital records and 7,048,025 physician billing records from 2005-2011 were analyzed, revealing one-way travel distances ranging from 11-63 km (hospitals) and 11-44 km (physician visits). 78% of admissions and 92% of discharges occurred between 6 AM-6 PM for hospital visits, daily and monthly factors were also determined. In New Brunswick, average daily admissions were 11.2 (hospitals) and 214.5 (physician visits). Transportation service delivery models were also explored based upon health record observations, and a non-profit non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) program was recommended for further investigation.