There have been a lot of big announcements from technology companies recently, but one in particular caught my eye this past week: Uber announcing an initiative called Uber Caregiver. What does a ride hail service have to offer caregivers?
Uber has been expanding into other services for awhile. Uber Eats has become a popular restaurant delivery service. That service has expanded to offer groceries as well. Uber Health seeks to bring together these services to serve a specific population that could benefit greatly from them: caregivers and care recipients.
Uber Caregiver will allow a designated caregiver to request rides and order groceries for the care recipient. The caregiver will be able to monitor progress of rides and shopping orders on their own device. This would be beneficial for remote caregivers or those who cannot check in on their loved ones daily. Care recipients could maintain their independence with a reliable service that would transport them safely to doctor’s appointments.
One thing that isn’t clear is if Uber Caregiver drivers will receive any specialized training. That would seem to be critical, whether it’s how to help someone who’s mobility impaired in and out of a car or accommodating clients with cognitive decline. The Uber Caregiver service supports a 3-way chat system so a caregiver can stay in touch throughout the ride and receive a notification when their loved one arrives safely.
Those in rural areas will likely be out of luck, as Uber tends to focus on major cities and suburbs for its service areas. That’s unfortunate, as it’s those in rural areas without other transportation options that would benefit the most from the service. My parents were lucky to have access to a rural shuttle service run by the county, but the service was always being threatened by budget cuts.
Uber claims some healthcare plans will provide benefits towards the service, though it doesn’t provide a list of participating vendors. According to a Today report, those with Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and eligible employer health insurance plans may find that Uber Caregiver services are covered, though individuals should consult their specific plan providers to confirm.
Uber Caregiver will begin to roll out this summer, with shopping access coming at a later date.
Image courtesy of Uber.
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A few years back, we tried using the service, Lyft. It didn’t go too well. My mom has a walker and oxygen. They didn’t always have room or they weren’t really helpful with getting her walker in the vehicle. Sounds like Uber is getting people trained for this, though.
Unfortunately, I struggle with lifting my mom’s walker to take her to her appointments. It’s heavy. I’m no youngster either, and deal with chronic pain. Her Assisted Living facility has shuttles, but she didn’t want to have to pay (it’s extra). So, my bro put those shuttle appointments on his tab. We pay for her phone and groceries.
Thanks for sharing the Uber info.
Yes, I agree in order for this program to work, drivers will need to be trained on handling pricey and heavy medical equipment, among other things. Glad you were able to work out the shuttle situation at your mom’s facility.