Researchers Find Ambulance Use Shrinks in Cities with Uber

The use of ambulances has decreased significantly in the U.S. as Uber Technologies Inc.’s ride-hailing service spreads, according to a new study.

The researchers say the number of ambulance calls dropped a minimum of 7% in 766 cities across 43 states between 2013 an 2015 when Uber became available. The rate of decline could eventually increase to 15% as the use of ride-sharing services expands, the study’s authors predict.

The report, which has been submitted for peer review, was co-authored by David Slusky, an assistant professor of economics at the University of Kansas, and Dr. Leon Moskatel, an internist at Scripps Mercy Hospital in San Diego. Ambulance usage rates were provided by the National Emergency Medical Services Information System, a national repository for emergency medical services data.

The authors speculate that patients are using Uber in place of ambulances due in part to high costs and insurance deductibles. They also notes that Uber provides service in areas that traditional taxis don’t cover.

Previous studies also have shown a decrease in drunk driving arrests and accidents in some cities after Uber was launched.

Uber, which didn’t participate in the study, encourages people who need emergency medical assistance to call 911. Others point out that medical technicians can provide immediate care in an ambulance on the way to a hospital.