Introduction
The Isolated Patients Travel and Accommodation Assistance Scheme (IPTAAS) provides financial assistance for NSW and Lord Howe Island residents who need to travel long distances for specialist medical treatment that is not available locally. Patients may be eligible if they are enrolled with Medicare and need to travel more than 100 km to attend their nearest eligible specialist service. IPTAAS can help cover the cost of private vehicle travel, public transport, taxis or ride-sharing, approved air travel, and accommodation.
You can apply online through the IPTAAS website, or by submitting a paper IPTAAS form. For more information see the IPTAAS website or call 1800 478 227.
For Lord Howe Island Residents
IPTAAS is often crucial to ensuring that Lord Howe Island residents can get access to specialist care and services that aren’t available on the island. LHI residents can use the code “LHI Pre-Approval” on their IPTAAS form for air travel.
As of early 2026, a GP signature is no longer required on your IPTAAS form (however, the specialist’s signature, or evidence that you attended your appointment with the specialist is still required).