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The initiative will integrate Uber’s ride-sharing services throughout the hospital experience, and HUMC will assist in supporting the cost of Uber trips home from the medical center for those in need, the release says.
Both Uber and the hospital will implement features within their apps to facilitate seamless pick-ups and drop-offs, it says.
“At HackensackUMC, we are committed to providing the best care to patients in the most convenient ways possible,” said Robert C. Garrett, the president and CEO of Hackensack University Health Network.
“We continuously assess our patients’ needs and try to respond by offering services and programs," Garrett said. "We are proud to partner with Uber for this one-of-a-kind service that will make healthcare more accessible to our patients, team members and visitors who cite transportation as an obstacle to care.”
On-demand rides through Uber will also improve efficiency, as discharging patients who lack a transportation alternative is often costly and time-intensive, according to the press release.
In the coming weeks, Uber will activate a feature in its app that allows users to indicate specifically which pick-up zone they are located in when requesting a ride, it says.
Uber ride reminders will be built into the HUMC app, and the hospital’s website will host a ride request landing page.
The new pick-up/drop-off areas at the hospital will be designated by co-branded signs, and HackensackUMC employees will be at these locations to help riders get in and out of their Ubers, according to the release.
First-time riders will be able to get a free first ride up to $20 using the promotion code HACKENSACKUMC.
“HackensackUMC is taking a bold step to ensure that everyone has a safe, reliable way to get home following their medical visit,” said Ana Mahony, General Manager for Uber New Jersey. “Across the state, community leaders and local governments are increasingly turning to Uber to help tackle their greatest transportation challenges, and we’re proud to offer innovative solutions.”
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