Frequently Asked Questions
Wheelchair Transportation Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you are arranging wheelchair-accessible transportation for yourself, a loved one, or someone in your care, these answers cover many of the questions we hear most often throughout York Region, Simcoe County and surrounding communities. If your needs are unique, our team is always happy to help.
Booking & Scheduling
How far in advance should I book my ride?
We recommend booking 24 to 48 hours in advance whenever possible. This gives us the best opportunity to match your trip with the appropriate accessible vehicle and scheduling window.
Need transportation sooner? Please call us directly. We understand that hospital discharges, medical appointments, and unexpected situations can arise with little notice, and we will do our best to accommodate urgent or same-day requests based on availability.
Can I schedule recurring appointments?
Yes. If you attend regular treatments such as dialysis, physiotherapy, chemotherapy, rehabilitation, or other recurring appointments, we can help coordinate ongoing transportation.
Contact us with your schedule and mobility requirements, and we will work with you to arrange consistent service where possible.
What if my appointment runs late?
Medical appointments do not always finish on schedule. If your appointment is delayed, please let us know as soon as possible. We will make every reasonable effort to adjust your pickup based on driver availability and the day's schedule.
What is your cancellation policy?
We understand that medical appointments are often rescheduled or cancelled. There is no cancellation fee when a trip is cancelled at least four hours before the scheduled pickup time.
For shorter-notice cancellations, please contact us directly so we can discuss the circumstances and next steps.
Accessibility & Assistance
Can a family member, caregiver, or support person ride with me?
Yes. One accompanying family member, caregiver, medical escort, or personal support worker may travel at no additional charge, subject to available seating and advance notice during booking.
Let us know when reserving your trip so the vehicle can be configured appropriately.
What mobility devices can your vehicles accommodate?
Our accessible vehicles are designed to accommodate many common mobility devices, including:
- Standard manual wheelchairs
- Power wheelchairs
- Heavy-duty or extra-wide bariatric wheelchairs
- Three-wheel and four-wheel mobility scooters
- Rollators and standard walkers
Please provide the type and approximate dimensions of your device when booking so we can confirm the most suitable vehicle.
Do I need to transfer out of my wheelchair?
In many cases, no. Our vehicles are equipped to secure passengers while they remain in their wheelchair. If you are unsure whether your mobility device can be accommodated, contact us before the trip so we can review your specific needs.
Do you provide door-through-door assistance?
Where appropriate and with permission, our drivers can assist passengers from a residence or care facility to the vehicle and accompany them to the entrance of their destination.
Assistance depends on the environment, accessibility conditions, passenger needs, and safe working limits. Please describe any stairs, thresholds, ramps, or other access considerations when booking.
Can you transport passengers using portable oxygen?
In many cases, yes. Please tell us during booking if you use portable oxygen or other medical equipment so we can review the equipment, securement needs, and any relevant transportation requirements.
Service Area
What geographic areas do you serve?
Our primary service corridor covers Simcoe County, York Region, and the Northern GTA, including:
- Bradford and West Gwillimbury
- Barrie and Innisfil
- Newmarket, Aurora, and East Gwillimbury
- King, Richmond Hill, and Vaughan
- Alliston and New Tecumseth
- Wasaga Beach and parts of Muskoka
We also regularly coordinate trips to major healthcare destinations in Toronto and surrounding communities.
Do you provide longer-distance transportation?
Longer-distance and out-of-area trips may be available by prior arrangement. Contact us with the pickup location, destination, timing, mobility device, and assistance requirements so we can confirm availability and provide a custom quote.
Safety & Drivers
Are your vehicles inspected and safety-compliant?
Safety is one of our highest priorities. Our accessible vehicles are maintained and inspected in accordance with applicable Ontario commercial vehicle and accessible transportation requirements.
Vehicles are also equipped with commercial-grade mobility-device securement systems, and drivers complete pre-trip checks before service.
How are wheelchairs and mobility devices secured?
Accessible vehicles use commercial wheelchair securement equipment designed to stabilize the mobility device during transport. Drivers confirm securement before the vehicle moves.
What qualifications and training do your drivers have?
Drivers are selected and trained to support passengers with professionalism, patience, and care. Screening and training may include:
- Vulnerable Sector Checks
- Driver abstract and applicable commercial driving requirements
- First Aid and CPR certification
- Accessibility and passenger-assistance training
- Wheelchair and mobility-device securement procedures
Billing & Insurance
Do you accept insurance, WSIB, or healthcare mobility claims?
Depending on your circumstances, we may be able to work with:
- WSIB-approved workplace injury transportation
- Approved motor vehicle accident claims
- Corporate healthcare and facility accounts
- Private-pay customers
Coverage and direct billing depend on authorization, claim status, and payer requirements. Contact us with your claim or billing information so we can explain the available process.
What forms of payment do you accept?
Payment options may include cash, major credit cards, approved insurance billing, and corporate account billing for eligible facilities or organizations. Confirm your preferred payment method when booking.
Do you provide invoices or receipts?
Yes. Itemized electronic invoices or receipts are available for completed trips. They may be useful for insurance reimbursement, corporate records, or medical expense claims where applicable.
Eligibility for insurance or tax treatment should be confirmed with the relevant insurer, government program, or tax professional.
Preparing for Your Ride
How should I prepare for my pickup?
Please be ready a few minutes before the scheduled pickup time. Ensure your wheelchair, walker, scooter, or other mobility device is ready for transport and that essential items are gathered.
Share special instructions, entry details, building access information, and assistance needs in advance so the driver can prepare.
Can I bring personal belongings or medical equipment?
Small personal belongings and medically necessary equipment can usually be accommodated. This may include a walker, portable oxygen, or a small overnight bag.
Please mention larger or unusually shaped items during booking so we can confirm available space and vehicle suitability.
Can I travel with a service animal?
Service animals are welcome. Please let us know when booking so we can prepare the seating and vehicle layout appropriately.
General Questions
What are your operating hours?
Our office and dispatch line are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Transportation outside standard scheduling may be available for existing contracts, recurring medical transportation, and pre-arranged services.
Same-day or after-hours transportation remains subject to vehicle and driver availability, so advance booking is recommended whenever possible.
How do I contact York Simcoe Wheelchair Service?
Call 905-775-5755 or 289-831-1630.
You may also email yorksimcoewheelchairservice@gmail.com.
Policies, pricing, service availability and eligibility for third-party billing may change. Please confirm current details when booking.