Aida
A web app that provides rides and companionship for people who are traveling far distances to abortion clinics.
Problems
Limited access to abortion clinics
TargetedRestriction on Abortion Providers or TRAP requires abortion clinics and women’s health centers o have unnecessary standards like proximity to hospitals, specific corridors or room sizes, etc. that forced many abortion clinics to close down across the country.
Mandatory pre-abortion counseling
5 states give information about the link between abortion and breast cancer. 13 states give information about fetal pain after 20 weeks. 8 states give information about the negative psychological effects of abortion. None of these claims has any scientific proof.
To get to an abortion clinic, women have 4 options.
Driving, which is advised against in case of surgical abortion. This can also be an isolating and stressful experience.
Asking friends or family, which is not possible for many women who experience the stigma around abortion.
Using ride-sharing apps, which is costly and unsafe.
Seeking help from non-profits, which provide affordable and compassionate care, but are very limited and are already overwhelmed.
Important note: This data was gathered before the overturn of Roe. vs. Wade. The current state of abortion access is considerably more limited.
Product Features
When patients make an appointment, they are asked whether they have anyone to accompany them. If they don’t, clinic sends them a text to a link to the website with an ID and password. They are also asked to upload a form of authentication.
After they are finished booking, their companion will contact them before the day of the appointment to answer their questions and build trust between the patient and companion.