The smartphone app ‘Uber’ has transformed the transportation industry by seamlessly connecting riders with drivers. Many believe an ‘Uber-like’ approach, applied to the healthcare industry, has the potential to be truly transformative. Imagine receiving care when and where you need it by simply pressing a button on your smartphone and, shortly thereafter, receiving a visit from your doctor.
Several startups, using the shared economy model, are experimenting with such approaches by connecting unused capacity in the healthcare system with consumers who seek on-demand in-home medical visits. For example, the company “Heal” in Los Angeles, San Francisco and Orange County, CA commits to having a doctor at your door in less than an hour.
Applying an ‘Uber-like’ approach to the healthcare industry is likely to present many challenges; however, The Margolin Group believes that this innovative approach has the potential to be transformative, by uniting caregivers, insurers and patients through on-demand technology. We will continue to work on this and related issues in our continuing effort to broaden access, reduce cost, and improve the overall quality, service, safety and experience of health care and health coverage across America.