Duke Partners to Provide Free Rides for COVID-19 Vaccine Appointments

Duke University and Duke Health is partnering with RIDE UNITED NC to provide equitable transportation to COVID-19 vaccination sites across North Carolina.

According to the American Hospital Association 3.6 million people in the United States cannot access health care each year due to transportation issues.

The United Way of the Greater Triangle initiated the program with Lyft, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC), and North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), in support of the North Carolina COVID-19 Public Health Coalition.

A $100,000 contribution from Duke University and Duke Health will support the statewide RIDE UNITED NC call center and will supply Lyft codes for rides in Durham and Wake counties.

"Providing transportation options for safe, efficient, and equitable access to vaccines is critical in curbing the spread of COVID-19 and reflects Duke University and Duke Health’s commitment to supporting the health and well-being of community members in the Triangle and across the state," said Stelfanie Williams, Duke’s vice president for Durham and Community Affairs.

Eligible individuals may call 1-844-771-RIDE to schedule a ride to a vaccine appointment. The call center is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, and the free service is available to those who are age 55+, uninsured, unbanked, and/or members of households considered low-income by the federal definition.

For more information, visit the United Way of the Greater Triangle website.