Health services startup Babylon has launched a 24/7 chat function for all things novel coronavirus related as it looks to better connect with people who may be self-isolating and free up its clinicians to help those most in need of care.

The COVID-19 Care Assistant will provide useful information and videos, a symptom checker, 24/7 live chat access and virtual consultations with trained member of Babylon’s staff, the ability to log symptoms, and hospital referrals.

“COVID-19 is the biggest public health threat to our communities for nearly a century and Babylon has a huge obligation to help. We know how hard governments and healthcare systems are working to battle this pandemic and fully support their tireless work,” said Ali Parsa, CEO & founder of Babylon.

“We were founded to help tackle the challenges of accessibility and affordability of healthcare for every person on earth by using technology to increase the reach and impact of healthcare professionals. The combination of our technology and clinical service allows our doctors and nurses to use their time for the most suited tasks, whilst amplifying their expertise for the benefit of all our patients. We stand ready to help our communities in any way we can and in any manner they need.”

The COVID-19 chat feature will be available on the Babylon Health app, which can be downloaded via Google Play or the App Store, in the UK in the ‘coming days’ before being rolled out elsewhere.