McLaren Flint Foundation and the American Cancer Society have teamed up once again to do what's best for patients at Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Flint, especially for those who have no access to transportation for appointments and treatment.
A brand new Cancer Patient Transport Van is on the road, providing rides for cancer patients and taking them to their appointments at Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Flint. The American Cancer Society coordinates the Road to Recovery volunteer drivers who help 2 – 8 patients each day get to their appointments. This is a complimentary service for patients and can make the difference whether the patient commits to their cancer treatment or not. For those who cannot drive, the cost of a taxi averages about $30 per trip, which can cost the patient up to $32,000 in transportation expenses alone for the course of their treatment.
This partnership between McLaren Flint and the American Cancer Society is 10 years old and has proven to be extremely beneficial to patients without transportation options. Special thanks to Al Serra Auto Plaza for their contribution toward the new van. During the past decade, the program supplied on average 40 patients with 1,050 rides. Just last year alone, the program provided 43 patients with 1,063 rides. In addition to arriving at their appointments on time, this door-to-door service provides the patient another support person they carry throughout their cancer journey.