Modern Healthcare Source Article | Comments Courtesy of Matt Zavadsky

Continued disruptive innovation in healthcare – even mobile healthcare.  Note the Lyft and Uber integration into healthcare system’s EHRs – this is something EMS computer aided dispatch developers should take note of – one future path for EMS is for 9-1-1 centers to implement Nurse Triage programs similar to the programs here at MedStar, Las Vegas, D.C., Niagara and Memphis.  Planned CMS ET3 funding for dispatch centers to implement medical triage systems designed to reduce ambulance responses could potentially accelerate this process.  Ride share options to alternate destinations are a good alternative for low/no acuity 9-1-1 callers.

Also note Lyft and Uber’s shift to addressing social determinants of health – food delivery and free rides to healthy grocery options for people in food deserts.  Could be a good partnership with EMS-based MIH programs looking for those options for enrolled patients.

Lyft, Uber expand reach into healthcare

JESSICA KIM COHEN 

October 28, 2019

The nation's two ride-sharing giants are continuing their push into healthcare, announcing major expansions of their work within days of one another.

Uber on Monday announced its healthcare arm plans to integrate an app into Cerner Corp.'s electronic health record system, which would allow caregivers to schedule rides for patients. Lyft last week said it is now providing covered rides for eligible Medicaid beneficiaries in Georgia, Michigan, Missouri, Tennessee and Virginia.

Healthcare is a massive opportunity for on-demand transportation companies like Lyft and Uber, according to analysts, and the companies—despite two very different announcements this week—are largely tackling the industry with similar strategies, beginning with a focus on providing patients with free or affordable rides to non-emergency medical appointments.

Lyft last year unveiled a collaboration with EHR vendor Allscripts. Uber is also offering rides to Medicaid beneficiaries in some states, including Arizona. Lyft has been working with LogistiCare, and Uber with American Logistics—two companies that manage patient transportation to medical appointments for providers and payers.

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