Onward adds bi-directional SMART on FHIR integration for EHR-connected patient transportation

By AI, Created 5:02 AM UTC, May 27, 2026, /AGP/ – Onward launched a bi-directional SMART on FHIR integration that moves transportation data directly into modern EHRs and sends patient context back into its platform. The update is designed to cut manual work for case managers and discharge teams while supporting faster coordination across health systems.

Why it matters: - Onward’s new integration links patient transportation and EHR workflows in both directions. - Health systems can reduce manual re-entry, which lowers the risk of errors in case management and discharge coordination. - The update is designed to speed up transportation ordering and improve care coordination across clinical teams.

What happened: - Onward launched a bi-directional SMART on FHIR EHR integration for its healthcare transportation platform. - The integration sends structured, real-time transportation data into modern EHR systems and returns patient context into Onward. - The launch was announced in Santa Rosa, California, on May 27, 2026.

The details: - The integration works with modern EHRs including Epic, Cerner, Meditech, and Point Click Care. - The system does not require custom middleware. - Standard implementation takes 3-4 weeks. - Transfer center staff and case managers can avoid a workflow that previously required booking a ride, waiting for confirmation, and then manually entering transport type, vendor, pickup location, driver contact, special equipment needs, and other details into EHR case management and visit or discharge notes. - Authentication uses OAuth2 and SMART on FHIR. - Data transmission is HIPAA-compliant, encrypted, and logged on both platforms. - The integration creates a more seamless single sign-on experience for users. - Onward built the integration with UCSF Health and validated the bi-directional workflow end to end in UCSF’s Epic environment. - The integration is also live with Stanford, HonorHealth, and El Camino health system. - Onward’s transport platform supports health systems, PACE programs, health plans, and clinics. - Onward’s Companion Rides service is positioned as a ride-share alternative for seniors, disabled adults, and low-acuity patients who need minor physical assistance. - Companion Drivers provide door-through-door service. - More information is available on Onward’s website. - Onward also shared a LinkedIn page at its company profile.

Between the lines: - The move reflects a broader push in healthcare toward open interoperability instead of custom integrations. - Support for multiple major EHR platforms suggests Onward is aiming for broad enterprise adoption. - Partnership with UCSF Health signals clinical validation, while deployments at other organizations suggest the workflow is moving beyond pilot use.

What’s next: - Health systems can implement the integration on a 3- to 4-week timeline. - Onward is positioning the launch as a foundation for wider adoption of connected transportation workflows across care settings. - Broader use could expand as more health systems look to reduce friction between transportation scheduling and EHR documentation.

The bottom line: - Onward is trying to make patient transportation a native part of the EHR, not a separate manual process.