Older adults living at home, many of whom struggle to find transportation to COVID-19 vaccine appointments, stand to gain from a recently announced partnership.
This week, Walgreens and Uber Technologies said they are teaming up with Uber Technologies to help people schedule and drive to vaccination appointments. The partnership, whose purpose is to offer equitable access to underserved populations, will provide free or discounted rides to Walgreens stores and vaccine clinics. Pilot programs are underway in Chicago, Atlanta, Houston and El Paso, TX. The partnership, along with the National Urban League, will also support an educational initiative to address vaccine hesitancy.
A Kaiser Family Foundation analysis based on data retrieved as of Feb. 4, found that most adults 65 and older have not yet been vaccinated against the virus. Reasons why include long lines and difficulty scheduling appointments. Unvaccinated older adults contribute to home care workforce challenges as many staff do not feel safe in the homes of those who haven’t received the vaccine.
