Free Bus Pass Program Launches to Enhance Health Access in Coatesville
A new initiative aimed at improving access to health care has been launched in Greater Coatesville. The program, known as Ride for Health, offers free Coatesville Link bus passes to eligible residents traveling to medical appointments and essential social services. This collaboration between the Transportation Management Association of Chester County (TMACC) and the Equity Health Center seeks to alleviate a significant barrier to care: transportation costs.
The Ride for Health program is designed for individuals who live, work, or receive services in the Coatesville area, provided their health care providers are part of the Ride for Health Alliance network. By covering transit fares, this initiative addresses a persistent challenge that can hinder access to medical care.
The Coatesville Link operates Monday through Saturday, connecting riders to key locations, including Brandywine Medical Center, Coatesville VA Medical Center, the Coatesville YMCA, and various grocery stores. It also provides access to Parkesburg and Coatesville Amtrak stations, as well as connections to SEPTA Route 135.
Tim Phelps, executive director of TMACC, highlighted that the program emerged from discussions revealing that even minimal transit fares could prevent individuals from attending crucial appointments, particularly among those without vehicles. “Ride for Health is intended to remove both logistical and financial obstacles that lead to missed care,” he stated.
Under the initiative, individuals are encouraged to inquire with their health care or social service providers about participation in Ride for Health. Providers will then coordinate with TMACC to load complimentary rides onto a reloadable Coatesville Link fare card using TMACC’s electronic ticketing system, ModeShift. This system operates similarly to a SEPTA Key card and can be utilized via both a physical card and a mobile application. While medical trips under the program are free, riders can also add personal funds to the same card for other travel needs.
Moira Gassenmeyer, integrated health director for the Alliance for Health Equity and coordinator at the Equity Health Center, emphasized the importance of reliable transportation for better health outcomes. She noted that the program helps reduce missed appointments, enhances follow-up care, and empowers patients to take charge of their health management.
The Ride for Health initiative is funded through federal American Rescue Plan Act dollars allocated through 2026, with additional financial support from Chester County, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and local municipalities. Phelps indicated that partner agencies and organizations may also purchase fares to distribute to employees or clients requiring transportation assistance.
The overarching goal of the program is to promote equity, as Phelps stated, “Mobility should not determine whether someone can access care.” The Ride for Health initiative provides residents with a practical tool to remain connected to medical services and community resources, ultimately strengthening the region as a whole.
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