Who: This service is available for Northampton seniors age 60 and up who are unable to drive or have no means of transportation. Seniors are matched with a Northampton Council on Aging volunteer driver. The driver will wait for you during the appointment unless requested otherwise.
What: Medical transportation is provided by a volunteer driver who will pick up and drop off participant at their home. The primary goal is for every eligible senior in Northampton to have transportation to medical appointments, maintain good health, and maintain or improve independence. No Northampton senior would be excluded from this program based on income level, gender, physical ability, or national origin. The program is for medical appointments only, although drivers may stop to purchase prescriptions at a pharmacy following the appointment. These prescriptions should be called into the pharmacy in advance from physician’s office.
Where: Available for appointments in
- Northampton
- Local - 10-20 mile radius includes Easthampton and Amherst
- Distance - 20-30 mile radius includes Springfield, Holyoke and Westfield
- Long Distance - 30 miles or more such as Boston or Worcester. Fees vary dependent upon distance.
When: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. or as set up in advance as possible and available. Requests require a minimum of 48 hours advance notice.
How: A Northampton senior in need of transportation will call the Northampton Council on Aging at 587-1231. A driver will be assigned as soon as possible and the caller will be notified. The driver will confirm the appointment with caller on the day before appointment. Participants with appointment in Northampton will be asked to contribute $5.00 per each appointment date, payable to NCOA and given to the driver. The fee will be higher for appointments outside of Northampton. This fee will assist in covering cost of fuel. The participant will also pay additional expenses such as tolls or parking. Donations made to assist in covering someone else’s appointment are always welcome. Financial assistance is available - please inquire.
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