Uber is aiming to make it easier for its drivers to figure out if they’ve been infected with COVID-19. The ride-hailing company said Thursday that it’s partnering with telemedicine service Ro to give free assessments to all US-based Uber drivers and delivery people.

Ro already has free COVID-19 assessments for anyone who wants them. But through its partnership with Uber, there will be a dedicated portal for drivers to use…

Gig workers — like Uber and Lyft drivers and delivery people for Instacart, DoorDash and Postmates — are considered essential workers. This means they can continue to work during the pandemic, delivering food to people in quarantine and transporting medical workers to and from the hospital.

Because gig workers are still working, they’re more at risk of contracting COVID-19. Thousands of Uber and Lyft drivers have been infected with or exposed to the coronavirus, according to sick leave payouts from the companies, and at least five drivers have died from the disease.
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