Health care companies often talk about providing access to care. For too many, lack of access isn’t about insurance or getting an appointment – it’s simply about finding transportation to a facility to get the care they need.
Hackensack Meridian Health is working to change that.
HMH recently announced a new collaboration with Uber Health to provide qualifying patients with access to convenient transportation to and from medical care. This collaboration will offer rides for eligible patients discharged from the hospital, traveling to and from doctor’s appointments, and even assist medical students after long shifts and Monmouth University students visiting the Eatontown Urgent Care.
This initiative directly tackles transportation barriers, a key factor impacting access to healthcare, according to the National Institutes of Health. By leveraging Uber Health’s technology, Hackensack Meridian Health is aiming to reduce missed appointments and improve adherence to care plans, ultimately leading to better health outcomes.
HMH CEO Bob Garrett was thrilled to announce the development.
“This collaboration with Uber Health underscores our commitment to providing convenient, personalized care for all New Jerseyans,” he said. “By addressing transportation challenges, we’re improving access to vital medical services and fostering a more equitable and patient-centered healthcare system. This is just one example of leveraging innovation to enhance the patient experience and improve health outcomes.”
The program initially focuses on non-emergency medical transportation, but Hackensack Meridian Health may leverage Uber Health’s other offerings in the future, including prescription delivery, and grocery and over-the-counter item delivery, to further enhance patient care.
Uber Health’s HIPAA-enabled platform prioritizes patient privacy and is designed for ease of use for patients and healthcare providers. Riders do not need the Uber app, a credit card, or a smartphone to benefit from rides requested with Uber Health and communications are available in dozens of languages. The solution empowers care coordinators and providers to schedule rides efficiently, streamlining care coordination and helping close critical gaps in access.
Uber Health General Manager Zazhary Clark said the program matches the mission of the company.
“Uber Health is on a mission to simplify healthcare access and transform how people engage with their care,” he said. “By offering seamless transportation options, we’re helping patients get the care they need, when they need it.
“We’re proud to work with Hackensack Meridian Health to help expand access to care across New Jersey and deliver this innovative solution to patients and providers alike.”
