May 25, 2022 – The American Cancer Society awarded a $200,000 transportation grant to Ochsner Health. Funds will help adult and pediatric cancer patients residing in Louisiana and Mississippi access reliable and safe transportation to and from appointments.
Transportation is a common barrier to accessing healthcare, often creating a financial, logistical and emotional burden – both for the patient and caretakers. Unforeseen disruptions in public transportation can further intensify this issue for patients travelling from rural to urban areas for treatment. The US News & World Report ranked Louisiana #48 in the country for transportation after reviewing road and bridge quality, average commute times, and public transit issues.
“Cancer patients often undergo multiple treatments, which are most effective when delivered on schedule without interruption. This grant helps patients focus on their healing and helps remove any anxiety a patient may feel if they don’t know how they will get to an appointment or home afterwards,” said Brian Moore, MD, FACS, medical director, Ochsner Cancer Institute.
The American Cancer Society has been a consistent supporter of transportation and lodging assistance funds for Ochsner patients for many years. Last year alone, The American Cancer Society provided $320,000 to Ochsner Health for transportation and lodging assistance across the state of Louisiana.
“Some patients don’t have access to transportation at all or are too fatigued or sick to drive themselves,” said Amy Williams with the American Cancer Society. “Access to care is a big problem in our country, with low-income, people of color, and those living in rural communities suffering the most from disparities. The American Cancer Society is committed to breaking down these barriers and ensuring all people have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, find, treat, and survive cancer.”
The Ochsner Cancer Institute has cared for patients from all 50 states and 28 countries at its comprehensive cancer centers in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, St. Tammany Parish and in north Louisiana. In 2021, Ochsner served more than 32,000 adult and pediatric cancer patients.