Study: Uber Replacing Ambulances Nationwide

As researchers continue studying the impacts of ride-hailing on travel patterns, public transit, and traffic, a new paper adds to the conversation with the conclusion that Uber is contributing to a drop in ambulance rides across the country. And in this case, at least, the study authors believe Uber is providing a needed service where a good alternative is not necessarily available.

Previous research, Moskatel said, "suggests that a fair number of people are using ambulances to get to the hospital because they simply don't have another way to get there" — particularly those who live in areas with limited taxi service.

And, Slusky added … "For many of us with high-deductible plans, an ambulance ride would cost thousands of dollars.'"

The paper uses data from Uber—the longest operating major ride-hailing company—to track ridership trends in 766 cities in 43 states from 2013 to 2015.