Uber Caregiver launches to simplify travel for caregivers and recipients nationwide
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Uber has introduced a new service called Uber Caregiver, designed to make transportation easier for Australia’s caregivers and care recipients.
This nationwide feature aims to address the logistical and emotional challenges of arranging travel for those in need of daily support, including people with disabilities and the elderly.
Available through the Uber app, Uber Caregiver allows caregivers to book, track and manage rides on behalf of care recipients. The feature includes an innovative three-way in-app chat for communication between caregivers, passengers and drivers, as well as Uber’s safety features like ride tracking. Trips can be scheduled up to 90 days in advance, offering caregivers more flexibility.
For the over 3 million informal caregivers and 460,000 employed care and support workers in Australia, transportation is a significant challenge. A study commissioned by Uber and conducted by the Health Professional Councils Authority found that 84% of NDIS participants rely on family or caregivers to arrange their travel. Uber Caregiver aims to alleviate this burden by simplifying trip management and payments.
Emma Foley, Managing Director of Uber Australia and New Zealand, highlighted the importance of this service.
“Caregivers are essential, providing critical support for millions of Australians. However, arranging transportation and managing the payment for those trips for someone you care for can add stress to what is often an already demanding and complex role,” said Foley. “With Uber Caregiver, we’re making it easier to arrange reliable transportation…and connect you with the driver and rider in the event of the unexpected.”
Enhancing accessibility and inclusion
Uber Caregiver builds on the company’s commitment to accessibility, including the 13-Uber phone-based booking service for those less comfortable with app-based technology. Zack Alcott, Co-CEO of Get Skilled Access, praised the initiative, stating:
“Accessible travel and transportation often present challenges for elderly people and those living with disability…By simplifying travel for people with disability, accessibility needs, and the caregivers who support them, we are pleased to see Uber’s efforts in removing barriers for a large and important group of Aussies.”
The new feature, developed by the Uber Health product team, reflects Uber’s broader efforts to work with local businesses and government on innovative solutions for accessible transportation. Uber Caregiver is now available nationwide, offering caregivers peace of mind and improved transportation access for those they support.
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
