Source: PixabayAccording to new research, ailing people may be more likely to call the ride-sharing service Uber before calling an ambulance.

Examining ambulance rates in 766 U.S. cities in 43 different states between 2013 and 2015, researchers determined that Uber might reduce ambulance use by as much as 7 percent.

Study authors, 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, were inspired to conduct the research after noticing a decrease in ambulance use once Uber began offering services.

However, researchers believe the trend is not exactly a reflection of a declining health care system but an indication that a person’s symptoms aren’t severe enough to require the services that ambulances offer en route to the hospital.

Without the appropriate insurance, a ride in an ambulance can be extremely costly. Additionally an ambulance takes the patient to the closest hospital, which may not necessarily be one of their choosing.

Consequently, researchers determined that opting to take Uber may be a cost-control measure as well as a measure to control where the patient seeks treatment.

A benefit of this trend, according to researchers is that non-critical patients selecting the ride-sharing service may ultimately free up ambulances for critical patients needing the services offered in an ambulance en route to the hospital.