Drivers working with inDrive in Nigeria can now obtain healthcare services directly through the ride-hailing app after the company partnered with Heala, a Nigerian health-technology startup that builds digital systems connecting patients, healthcare providers, and insurers.
Through this collaboration, qualified inDrive drivers can subscribe to Heala’s health plans within the app. The service allows them to consult licensed doctors remotely, receive prescriptions, and access medications as well as diagnostic tests without interrupting their driving schedules.
The initiative aims to solve a major problem faced by many ride-hailing drivers in Nigeria. Because they often spend long hours on the road dealing with heavy traffic and irregular work schedules, finding time to visit hospitals during normal working hours can be difficult.
In addition, ride-hailing drivers are usually classified as independent contractors instead of full-time employees. As a result, they typically do not receive workplace benefits such as healthcare coverage. This lack of welfare support has previously led to protests from drivers who have urged ride-hailing companies to provide better social benefits.
Oladimeji Timothy, the country manager for inDrive in Nigeria, said the partnership demonstrates the company’s commitment to supporting drivers’ wellbeing.
With the integration of Heala’s healthcare services into the inDrive app, the plans are currently available to Platinum drivers. Drivers can subscribe to monthly packages starting from about ₦1,300 (around $1) directly through the platform.
After enrolling, drivers can communicate with licensed doctors via video calls, voice calls, or chat on their phones. They can also receive prescriptions, collect medications from nearby pharmacies, and undergo diagnostic tests or specialist treatment when necessary. Drivers who choose a full-year subscription can also access hospital visits when required.
The service also allows drivers to include family members—such as spouses and children—so that their dependents can benefit from the healthcare coverage as well.
According to Anderson Oriahi, CEO of Heala, the partnership helps bring healthcare services closer to workers who keep cities running. He noted that drivers often work extended hours and rarely have the time to navigate traditional healthcare systems.
This initiative follows similar welfare programs in the ride-hailing industry. Companies such as Bolt have previously partnered with healthcare providers to offer drivers access to consultations and discounted medical services.
Beyond ride-hailing, other mobility platforms are adopting similar measures. For example, delivery platform Chowdeck recently introduced accident insurance for over 20,000 riders through a partnership with MyCoverGenius. The insurance covers medical costs and temporary disability resulting from work-related accidents, reflecting a broader effort by mobility companies to support drivers beyond simply providing earning opportunities.
