If you need short stay/short term accommodation to be close to a relative or friend while they are in hospital, there are a number of options available. There are three accommodation providers within a short walking distance from the hospital:
Glen Alvie Lodge ( brochure pdf 301kb) provides budget accommodation with communal bathroom and kitchen facilities. All rooms have two beds; a discounted rate is available if you are willing to share your room. Glen Alvie also has units available nearby at reasonable rates.
Chermside Court Motel (www.chermsidecourtmotel.com) offers motel accommodation with ensuite bathroom and basic cooking facilities (microwave, toaster, electric kettle).
Prince Charm Court (RACQ www site ) offers self-contained apartments with full cooking facilities.
If you have a car, there are several other options available. A guide to rooms rates is provided here Accommodation in Vicinity to The Prince Charles Hospital (pdf 18kb) but please bear in mind that prices are subject to change.
Queensland residents
If it is medically necessary for you to accompany your relative while they are in hospital, you may be able to receive an accommodation subsidy from your local hospital through the Patient Travel Subsidy Scheme. Unless your relative requires emergency transport, you need to obtain approval for your accommodation subsidy before you travel and have a form completed by a doctor in your local area. Phone or visit the patient travel office at your local hospital to discuss your eligibility and the application process. If your relative has been admitted unexpectedly, see your social worker as soon as possible and they will liaise with your local hospital on your behalf. Direct billing may be able to be arranged so you only need to pay your accommodation provider the difference between the subsidy and the full cost of your accommodation.
New South Wales residents
New South Wales has a similar scheme called Transport for Health. You may apply after you travel but there is the possibility that your claim will not be successful. If you are in doubt as to your eligibility for subsidies, contact your local Area Health Service or ask your social worker to contact them on your behalf. If you obtain approval during your relative's hospital admission, direct billing of your accommodation provider may be able to be arranged.
Northern Territory residents
Northern Territory Health's scheme is called the Patient Assistance Travel Scheme. Arrangements generally need to be made well before you and your relative travel, so contact your local hospital's patient travel office to confirm your eligibility.
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