New Delhi, Jan 17 (IANS): Online cab-hailing firm Ola on Tuesday announced its partnership with Apollo Hospitals to create comprehensive medical programme for driver-partners.

During this programme, Ola drivers will be equipped to provide medical assistance in case of on-road emergencies.

Drivers will also be taken through a free basic health check-up where their blood pressure, body mass index (BMI) and blood sugar will be tested.

"With this collaboration, we would ensure that over 5.5-lakh drivers across the country are prepared to provide medical response in case of accident or emergency," said Pranay Jivrajka, Ola COO, in a statement.

Driver partners will also be able to opt for a "My Apollo Card" which will provide them with medical benefits, while Apollo Munich will entitle them to accident insurance at discounted rates.

"In creating this training programme with Ola, we hope to create a safer on-road experience for drivers and commuters every day," said Hari Prasad, President, Apollo Hospitals, in a statement.

The programme will be conducted in five cities including Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad and Chennai.