Rapid Response: How "startup DNA" helped One Medical respond to Covid, with CEO Amir Rubin

Testing

One Medical's approach to testing during the COVID-19 pandemic was multifaceted, focusing on both acute diagnosis and ongoing screening. Amir Rubin emphasizes the importance of PCR testing for acute diagnosis, noting the need for tests that are both sensitive and specific to ensure accurate results 1. He explains that understanding the prevalence of the virus in a community is crucial for determining the appropriate testing protocol, as different areas may require different strategies 1.

You might have a different protocol in New York than you would have in San Francisco because of the population.

--- Bob Safian

Rubin also discusses the role of antibody testing in understanding immunity, though he cautions that the presence of antibodies does not necessarily confer immunity 2. Additionally, One Medical has implemented machine learning models to enhance screening processes, integrating these into their app for daily employee assessments 3.

   

Community Response

One Medical played a pivotal role in community health responses during the pandemic, leveraging its national model to provide testing services across cities like New York and San Francisco. Amir Rubin highlights the company's preparedness, with established interfaces with labs and a robust supply chain for PPE, allowing them to quickly adapt to community needs 4. Their service-oriented culture enabled them to extend testing services to various groups, including healthcare workers and Lyft drivers, showcasing their commitment to public health.

We've also done this for Lyft drivers. We've done it for any healthcare worker. We just said, we'll open up.

--- Amir Rubin

The company's model, which includes virtual, on-site, and office-based services, allowed for a seamless transition in addressing the crisis, maintaining a longitudinal relationship with members through various modalities 4.