Patient transport specialist launches new service to improve healthcare access

Patient transport specialist EMED Group has launched a new service in Leicestershire to improve healthcare access for the community.

The new patient transport service covers Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland, improving access to healthcare by providing reliable transportation for non-emergency medical needs, including outpatient appointments, discharges, and renal dialysis.

Launched last month, the service is a joint initiative between EMED Group and the Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland Integrated Care Board (ICB).

EMED Group enlisted property consultancy Vail Williams to find and secure three industrial sites with yards large enough to accommodate ambulances.

The service now operates from three locations on business parks in Pinfold Road, Thurmaston; Kernan Drive, Loughborough; and Wistow Road, Kibworth.

Vail Williams supported EMED by providing advice on occupancy, including agency, building consultancy, planning, and business rates.

Geoff Fallon, regional managing partner for Vail Williams in Surrey, said: “As part of our work we are searching for and negotiating terms for all the lettings, undertaking pre-acquisition surveys and producing schedules of condition to protect them at lease end.

“We also give strategic ancillary planning advice as well as offer business rates support and ensure their occupancy costs are monitored. Communication and good working relationships have been key to the success of our work with EMED Group, and we will continue to support them as they grow into 2025.”

Darren Henderson, head of procurement and contracts at EMED Group, said: “Vail Willians has been instrumental in enabling EMED Group to access the correct properties to deliver our health and social care services.

“Their advice has been a lifesaver for our organisation, providing us with efficient and cost-effective solutions for all our leasing needs. They have a deep understanding of the commercial property sector, and EMED Group needs and have helped us navigate through complex lease agreements with ease.”