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Patients pick Uber, Lyft over ambulance transport

The ride-share service allows customers to pay less than what an ambulance ride costs, but at what risk to their health?

By EMS1 Staff

SAN FRANCISCO — Hailing an Uber driver for a ride to work, the gym, or even to the ER isn’t a new idea.

Stat News reported that drivers for Uber and Lyft reported regular calls for customers in need of transportation to a hospital. Some drivers said riders in need of transportation had cuts, were experiencing asthma symptoms, anaphylaxis or suffered broken bones. However, Uber officials said they encourage people to call 911 instead of using Uber as a substitute.

The ride-share service allows customers to pay less than what an ambulance ride would cost, they get to go to their hospital of choice, but at what risk to the patient’s health?

Where do you stand on the idea? Let us know in the comments below.

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