Ensuring loved ones can get to medical appointments or do grocery shopping at the grocery store or cafe could become easier after the launch of a ride-sharing service designed for caregivers.
Uber Australia unveiled the feature on Tuesday, following its launch in the United States earlier in 2024.
But while the service can be used by the 460,000 paid caregivers working in Australia, representatives from the tech company say the service is also aimed at helping extended families and members of the ‘sandwich generation’, who cared for both children and elderly parents. .
Uber launched its Caregiver service in the US in May, allowing people in need of travel assistance to nominate a caregiver to make bookings on their behalf.
This feature allows designated caregivers to edit and track their route and introduces a three-way chat feature with a driver to discuss additional information such as delivery details.
Allowing healthcare providers to book trips would remove stress for both parties, Uber Australia managing director Emma Foley told AAP.
“There’s a big use case for people in that sandwich generation who are caring for their older relatives, often parents,” she said.
“We’re seeing a lot more of these situations where people don’t live in the same city as their elderly parents and they want to keep an eye on them and help them with their daily transportation.”
A rideshare service designed for healthcare providers is being launched in Australia
A survey of more than 1,000 Australians by the Health Professional Councils Authority found that 84 percent of NDIS participants relied on others to book their travel.
Uber partnered with disability inclusion consultancy Get Skilled Access to launch the service, and co-CEO Zack Alcott said it could help break down barriers for many people in the community.
“We all have a responsibility to contribute to a more inclusive society,” he said.
Uber Caregiver would be available at all levels of the ride-sharing service, including UberX, Ms. Foley said, although passengers who needed extra help getting on and off would have to select a ride with Uber Assist.
The service will compete with accessible and wheelchair-accessible taxis, many of which are being promoted by state governments.
Uber planned to work with Get Skilled Access to develop and launch more accessibility features for more of its services, Ms. Foley said.