Long Distance Bus Travel: Insights for Social Work Practice

Long distance bus travel is a primary mode of intercity and nationwide transportation in the United States. Social work clients frequently rely on long distance bus travel to relocate, access treatment programs, seek employment, and garner support from family and friends. Previous research suggests difficulties associated with client travel contribute to delays in care and poorer intervention outcomes. However, research examining cultural, physical, and social aspects of long distance bus travel is sparse. In this study, characteristics of long distance bus travel ridership, stations, stops, employees, buses, rules, norms, and activities are identified and described. Grounded in practice focused research and through participant observation, data from a one-way long distance bus trip originating in a Midwestern city and ending in a large Eastern metropolitan city are reported using a systems orientation. Important themes (e.g., expense, stress, communication, human needs, substance use, authority, and diversity) are identified when considering long distance bus travel for clients. Practical considerations for travel preparation and education are provided. Additional research is needed examining the impact of specific aspects of long distance bus travel (e.g., smoking restrictions, number of transfers, and time duration and distance of travel) and the challenges and strengths associated with alternate modes of transportation (e.g., air and railway) for accessing social services.