Okadoc, a doctor booking platform in the Middle East, has rolled out a new service to help ease the pressures of handling strict COVID-19 measures by allowing people to book their tests and vaccinations through its online platform and mobile app.
Okadoc’s platform allows patients to schedule COVID-19 tests at a convenient time and location. Vaccination bookings are also available from a wide range of hospitals and clinics, including Emirates Hospital, Medcare, Valient Clinic and Hospital and HealthPlus, allowing patients to book a free vaccination of their choice within seconds at a facility that suits them.
The service was launched shortly after the UAE announced new guidelines for students and teachers returning to school which indicated unvaccinated students over the age of 12 will be required to take weekly PCR tests. The KHDA later clarified that the tests were not required for students. (https://www.khda.gov.ae/en/safetyatschools)
However, entry to various government offices and public places in the UAE is restricted to those who have a vaccination certificate, or have a negative PCR test.
Okadoc continues to support the UAE’s world-leading COVID-19 vaccination and testing program by offering patients an easy and convenient way to book. Since the launch of its COVID-19 services in February, the platform has already helped residents book nearly 15,000 vaccinations and more than 40,000 tests.
In addition to COVID-19 vaccination and test appointments, the platform also allows patients to find nearby doctors across more than 300 facilities across the UAE and instantly book virtual or in-person appointments with doctors across 51 specialties.
Fodhil Benturquia, Okadoc CEO and Founder, commented: “Our goal at Okadoc has always been simple: to improve the healthcare experience – and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, this has never been more critical. Our platform is the only regional doctor booking platform that is directly integrated with providers’ health information systems, so patients can book their appointments with confidence, knowing they will get the care they need and deserve.”
The Middle East’s best-funded startup fast tracked its telehealth offering in response to the growing need for remote healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic. In May of 2020, it introduced its telemedicine platform, enabling virtual consultations with over 730 doctors from 90 healthcare providers, including the ability to settle fees online.
