Uber is expanding its services this year and investing in healthcare transportation. The global rideshare app, which has been around in some capacity since 2009, is now doubling down on a new initiative to get patients to and from doctor appointments, hospital visits, and clinic check ups. Although still in its early stages, the goal is to eliminate the stress and anxiety of travelling on transit or traditional cabs while ill.
The innovation is being called, Uber Health, and unlike the basic taxi service, this option will require healthcare providers to book in advance. In addition, Uber Health plans to bill the hospital or office for the trip and not the patient. According to a brief press release, the company has created and launched a separate software system to help streamline the useful service.
Perhaps even more practical is that Uber Health riders will not need a smartphone to participate. The project’s General Manager, Chris Weber explained just how the hailing works in a company statement posted this week. “[Uber Health] is all done through text message. We’re even going to be introducing the option for riders to receive a call with trip details to their mobile phone or landline instead. For many, their first ever Uber ride will be through Uber Health, so we’re committed to providing the necessary education tools that ensure every patient feels comfortable and at ease during their journey.”
As of now, the handy service is only available in the United States. Thankfully, Uber has already shown interest in expanding the project north of the border. With all of that in mind, it won’t be surprising to see Uber Health set up shop in Canada in the near future. In the meantime, you can read all about what to expect via the app’s official newsroom here.
