It’s a challenge that all hospitals in an urban setting face but is often hidden beneath the surface: parking. Lack of parking is a common complaint for employees, patients, and visitors, whether they’re arriving for a quick check-up or clocking in for a 12-hour shift.
Innovations related to patient care will always be at the forefront, but many don’t realize the behind-the-scenes solutions needed to keep these operations running smoothly so patients and families face as few roadblocks as possible.
Firmly anchored on Chicago’s West Side, Rush University Medical Center’s campus has a finite amount of parking coupled with high demand. While there is great attention to ensuring those receiving care don’t spend a significant amount of time searching for a place to park, there is also an emphasis on encouraging staff to use public transit to ensure as much parking is available to patients and visitors as possible.
“We try to find ways to make using public transit to and from Rush as easy for employees as possible,” said Giuseppe Daddosio, parking and transportation program manager. “A key to making that effort a success is by providing a quality shuttle service to and from critical locations.”
Rush recently launched a collaboration with Uber to address this challenge and bring meaningful improvements to its shuttle service. Powered by Uber, the new Rush Commuter Shuttle program is transforming employees’ daily commutes by combining professional-grade shuttle service with the seamless technology and convenience Uber users expect.
While existing routes, stops and schedules remain the same, shuttle rides are now fully integrated into the Uber app for a more streamlined experience. By linking their Uber account to their Rush email address, staff and students can view ETAs, wait times and even book a specific shuttle time that suits their needs. Booking a shuttle ride in advance is free and helps reduce the anxiety of a missed or full shuttle, while giving the flexibility to secure a seat for a time that is most convenient for their schedules.
“As a longtime user of the Rush Shuttle, I can say the new service comes with significant improvements,” said David Mrazek, director of brand strategy and creative media. “I can see in real time where the shuttle is when I arrive at Union Station to meet it. It saves me from having to wait in the cold or rain, which is a big benefit in Chicago. This is a big improvement.”
In addition to real-time shuttle tracking, the Rush Commuter Shuttle also features free Wi-Fi, charging ports and a greater level of comfort seating.
“Our Rush team is deeply dedicated to putting the needs of patients and families first,” Daddosio said. “We want to thank them for understanding the importance of easing parking congestion on campus by creating a shuttle experience that is second to none.”
“Rush is dedicated to making transit for their patients and staff more accessible and predictable while minimizing stress, and we’re excited to collaborate with their team to help make that happen,” said Anthony Le Roux, head of High-Capacity Vehicles at Uber. “Whether employees need to get to their regular 9-5 or they are called in for an overnight shift, our shuttle program is a convenient solution.”
Rush provides round-trip shuttle service between the Medical Center campus and Ogilvie Transportation Center, Union Station and Millennium Park for staff and students who commute by train.