Patients who need transport between Noble’s Hospital and their homes will now be picked up and dropped off by Bus Vannin.
The Department of Health and Social Care has awarded the bus company a tender to perform the Patient Transport Services from July 1st.
It was previously run by the Red Cross.
Patients will be transported in a Mercedes Sprinter which has a wheelchair lift and seats recommended by the charity Arthritis UK.
Bus drivers have also received specialist training to ensure they’re up to date with moving and handling procedures as well as first aid.
Minister David Ashford says: "It was time to have a fresh look at our patient transport.
"The Red Cross has done an excellent job over the past decade, and our decision to award the contract to Bus Vannin doesn’t reflect any dissatisfaction.
"But I see a really positive opportunity to tap into the minibus service which Bus Vannin already operates and integrate these journeys between home and our hospitals.
"Instead of set pick-up times, the new operation will be more flexible in responding to individual needs – which means patients won’t have to wait too long after being dropped off at the hospital for their appointments, or afterwards to go home.
"The drivers understand how to assist patients and ensure their journeys are as comfortable as possible – their training has been a priority."
Bookings will be taken by a team at Noble’s Hospital - journey schedulers at Bus Vannin will plan routes and pick-up times using a specialist software system.
