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In its first year, Brick Township’s unique dialysis transportation program has provided over 595 rides, representing a lifeline for senior citizens in need of a ride to their appointments. Now, the program is confirmed to be expanding.
Despite the number of runs undertaken by two designated buses, the need for the program became even more apparent after service began, officials said. That led township officials to seek an additional funding opportunity to purchase additional vehicles – and this week, the funding came through.
Brick will receive a $200,000 grant from the the state Department of Community Affairs to expand the program with handicap-accessible vans that will run in addition to the two buses.
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While the buses the township purchased – also via grant funding – are wheelchair-accessible, the size and layout of the vehicles mean that embarking and disembarking patients in wheelchairs takes longer than it would if a smaller van was used. Purchasing two vans would not only free up more capacity in general, but make transportation easier for some patients, said township Business Administrator Joanne Bergin.
“If we had something that was easier to get the wheelchairs in and out of, and provide a little more privacy for the person, we think that would work great,” said Mayor Lisa Crate.
Indeed, the new round of funding will provide for the vehicles through the Senior Services budget.
“This program started January 16, 2023 and so far we’ve been able to provide 595 rides to 18 patients,” said Councilwoman Heather deJong. “It has been a really good thing for our residents.”
Dialysis is one of the most in-demand medical services for seniors, many of whom need transportation to get to and from the lengthy appointments. Due to the seasonal nature of the Shore area, schedules become even tighter during the summer, but the township began working with two providers to coordinate scheduling and provide reliable transportation.
“It’s really been great,” said deJong. “We’ve been transporting Brick residents to two local dialysis centers, and some patients are saving a significant amount of money on transportation expenses, as well as respite care to their caregivers who have been transporting them themselves.”
The township is expected to seek vendors and award a contract for the additional vehicles in the near future.
Brick Life
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