Source: Driving Miss Daisy
Independent Research Reveals the Hidden Costs of Missed Trips – and How Companion Transport Can Fix It
A new independent study has revealed the significant individual and societal costs of people missing trips due to transport barriers – and the unique benefits of companion transport services that accompany passengers from place-to-place.
The research, commissioned by Driving Miss Daisy and led by Dr Bridget Doran, a leading New Zealand expert in inclusive transport, found that place-to-place companion transport services can offer mental, physical, and social benefits not offered by door-to-door services such as taxis and rideshare, or public transport.
These include:
- Health and safety gains: Reduced risk of injury when entering and exiting vehicles, and lower levels of stress and trauma during journeys.
- Mental wellbeing: Social interaction with drivers improves mood, sense of control, and feelings of inclusion.
- Access to essential services: Companion transport enables attendance at medical appointments, recreational activities, work, and social opportunities that might otherwise be missed.
Transport barriers have a measurable cost to society. In New Zealand, missed GP appointments due solely to lack of transport are estimated to cost $8 million annually, with specialist appointments adding and estimated $29.1 million in lost staff time – not including the health and social costs of missed care.
Unlike traditional door-to-door services, companion transport provides a place-to-place service, meaning drivers meet passengers inside their starting location and accompany them to the destination. For many older adults and people with disabilities, the support from place-to-place is critical.
“Companion transport is more than just getting from A to B – it’s about providing safe, trusted, and supported journeys that improve wellbeing and independence,” said Dr Bridget Doran.
The findings come at a time of accelerating change in the future of transport, including increasing rideshare options and autonomous vehicles. The research cautions that while new ways to travel have a role, they cannot replace the trust, care, and social support of trusted companion transport.
About Driving Miss Daisy:
Driving Miss Daisy is New Zealand’s leading provider of companion transport services. Its trained drivers accompany clients from place-to-place, delivering safe, trusted, and caring journeys that change lives.
