A new study published in JAMA Network Open highlights how rideshare programs can help patients follow through with cancer screenings, addressing one of the most common barriers to care: transportation.
Why Transportation Matters
Preventive screenings save lives, yet many patients miss or delay appointments because they don’t have a reliable ride. According to the study, about one in four people have skipped or postponed important cancer screenings simply because they couldn’t secure transportation.
That’s where rideshare programs come in. By partnering with companies like Uber and Lyft, hospitals and health systems can ensure patients have a way to and from their appointments, especially when screenings require someone else to drive them home.
The Study’s Findings
Researchers modeled how offering free or low-cost rides could change outcomes. They found:
- Completion rates for screenings nearly doubled when rides were provided.
- Earlier detection meant fewer cancer cases and deaths.
- Offering rides wasn’t just good for patients — it was cost-effective, saving health systems money in the long run by reducing expensive emergency care and late-stage cancer treatments.
As the study authors put it: “Noninvasive CRC screening in the US is cost-saving because it prevents CRC, avoiding higher CRC treatment costs ($2.5 billion vs $21.35 billion). Therefore, improving follow-up colonoscopy after abnormal screening tests is essential for reducing CRC incidence and death and reducing the costs of cancer care.”
What This Means for Healthcare Access
Transportation is one of several social determinants of health (SDOH) that affect whether patients receive timely care. Rideshare programs are proving to be a practical solution, offering patients both convenience and peace of mind.
While not all insurance plans or hospitals currently provide rideshare benefits, the research suggests these programs could make a big impact if more widely adopted. The authors note that rides could remain cost-effective even at higher price points, reinforcing the value of such initiatives.
Looking Ahead
The next step for researchers will be testing these findings in real-world clinical trials. But the message is already clear: a simple ride could mean the difference between early detection and late-stage disease — and that could save both lives and healthcare dollars.
Source: Tech Target
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