MASA Insights / Emergency transport costs
Emergency medical transportation: The true costs — and how they’re rising
Published August, 2024
This exclusive whitepaper examines the costs of emergency medical transportation in the U.S., identifying a complex challenge for consumers, providers, and policymakers. Ambulance services are essential yet often overlooked in healthcare discussions, despite their significant financial burden, which is exacerbated by insurance gaps and rising prices.
Costs remain a challenge
Emergency medical transportation services play a vital role in providing life-saving trauma care, yet their costs are often overlooked in broader discussions about healthcare expenses. The unique circumstances surrounding emergency medical transportation — where choices are limited and time is critical — further complicate consumers’ understanding of these costs and their implications.
A frequent and necessary service
A report analyzing emergency medical services in 2022 revealed that around 20 million people received emergency medical transportation, highlighting the frequency with which these services are utilized. Families, especially those caring for elderly relatives, experience even higher rates of ambulance usage. The costs associated with ambulance services vary widely based on factors such as geographical location and the type of treatment provided, with average billed amounts ranging from $2,480 for women to $3,470 for children.1
Between 2019 and 2023, the costs of emergency transportation increased significantly, outpacing inflation even though utilization remained relatively stable. The average billed amount for air ambulance services was about $51,300, compared to $1,740 for ground transport.1 This increase in costs can be attributed to various factors, including the complexity of services provided during transport and advancements in medical technology, which raise both the operational costs of ambulance services and the costs of critical care rendered during transportation.
The search for solutions that serve everyone
Insurance coverage gaps exacerbate the financial burden of emergency medical transportation, with significant out-of-pocket expenses often falling on patients. As the aging population in the workforce increases, the demand for emergency transportation services is expected to rise, placing additional strain on both consumers and healthcare systems. This white paper aims to shed light on the nuances of medical transportation costs and their impact on access to care, with the hope of collaborating with employers, providers, and policymakers to identify solutions and improve the affordability of emergency medical services.