Help with travel costs - Health Travel Costs Scheme

From 1 August 2025, all travel cost refunds under the Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme (HTCS) at Wye Valley NHS Trust must be claimed using the HC5 Travel Refund Form.

What is the Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme? 

The Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme (HTCS) is a Department of Health scheme which allows patients on a low income or specific benefits to claim their travel costs to hospital.

Who can claim a refund?

Refunds are only available for people who have been referred by a GP, dentist, or ophthalmic practitioner or who are already under the care of a consultant. If you or your partner (including Civil Partner) is receiving any of the following benefits at the time of your appointment

• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Pension Guarantee Credit
• Universal Credit (meeting the criteria for exemption)
• NHS Tax Credit Exemption Certificate
• Low income, evidenced by a valid HC2 or HC3 certificate

How to make a claim?

To submit a claim for travel cost reimbursement:

1. Obtain an HC5 form from one of the following sources:

• Main Reception at Wye Valley NHS Trust
• Online via the NHS Business Services Authority website www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk (search “HC5 Refund Claim Form”)

1. Complete and submit the HC5 form to the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA) for eligibility verification.
2. Once verified, the form will be forwarded to Wye Valley NHS Trust’s Finance Department for processing.
3. Reimbursements will be issued within one month of verification being received by the Trust.

If you have not received your refund within this time frame, please contact the Finance Department directly at email: creditor.payments@wvt.nhs.uk

How can I get further information?

• Speak to staff at the Main Reception, Hereford County Hospital
• Visit the NHS website and search “Travel Costs” www.nhs.uk
• Call the NHS Travel Costs Advice Line: 0300 330 1343 (this number is also listed on the HC5 form)