Targeted Transport Assistance for Lower- And Middle-Income Households with Recurring Caregiver Transport Costs for Frequent Outpatient Treatment

Written Reply to Parliamentary Question

Miss Rachel Ong asked the Minister for Transport

a.            whether the Government has studied the cumulative public transport costs incurred by caregivers accompanying family members requiring frequent outpatient treatment, such as 65 dialysis, chemotherapy, radiotherapy or rehabilitation; and

b.            if so, whether more targeted transport assistance should be considered for lower- and middle-income households facing significant recurring transport expenditure.

Reply by Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow:

1.            The Land Transport Authority (LTA) currently does not directly track public transport expenses incurred by caregivers accompanying others for medical visits.

2.            Caregivers who are heavy users of public transport can purchase monthly passes to help manage their public transport expenditure. Caregivers from lower income households also benefit from other schemes such as Public Transport Vouchers in years of transport fare increases. We are sympathetic to the needs of caregivers and will continue to explore ways to help them access public transport when they accompany their family members for treatment.