Community Health of South Florida offers free transportation to medical appointments for patients across a 240-square-mile service area in South Miami-Dade County, helping residents who might otherwise struggle to reach care.

The nonprofit health care provider operates wheelchair-accessible vans and minibuses that pick patients up at home, take them to appointments and return them afterward, according to CHI's website.

The service covers much of South Miami-Dade, including communities around Palmetto Bay and Cutler Bay.

Door-to-door rides help patients reach appointments

Mary Johnson, a CHI patient for more than 20 years, began using the transportation service three years ago after a foot injury made walking to a public bus stop difficult.

"I used to catch the public bus to CHI, but I stopped because walking to the bus stop became too much for me after I hurt my foot," Johnson said in an Oct. 2 profile published by CHI. "I have been using CHI's van for three years now, and it is so easy. They pick me up right at my house."

Johnson uses the service about every three months for routine visits with Dr. Martha Perez at the Doris Ison Health Center, 10300 SW 216th St. Her trip takes about 30 minutes.

Kenneth Gould, CHI's vice president for facilities and logistics, oversees the fleet's daily operations, including routes and vehicle maintenance. He said reliable transportation can make the difference between patients missing appointments and receiving needed care.

Transportation program dates back decades

CHI has provided transportation for patients since the 1970s, according to the organization's history.

The Doris Ison Health Center is named for one of CHI's founders. Ison advocated for health care access in South Dade and testified before the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging in 1974 about transportation difficulties facing older residents.

CHI is a federally qualified health center serving communities across South Florida.

Patients who need transportation should arrange a ride at least 24 hours before their appointment. Door-to-door transportation can be scheduled by calling 305-252-4820. CHI lists 305-252-4802 for general transportation information and scheduling.