The Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme was established across the United Kingdom National Health Service in 1988.
Patients and their children in receipt of means tested benefits, or on a low income, could get help with the cost of travel to hospital appointments.
The legal basis was the National Health Service (Travelling Expenses and Remission of Charges) Regulations SI no 551 of 1988.
Others could apply for remission with a means test based on the Income Support rules.
[2] Costs reimbursed are normally for the cheapest suitable mode of transport for the patient's circumstances.