Rising fuel prices hinder access to healthcare as ambulance services face challenges

ISLAMABAD: The recent surge in fuel prices has created significant obstacles for patients seeking medical care, as ambulance services operated by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) struggle to meet growing demand.

According to an Express Tribune report, the increased cost of petrol and diesel has placed a heavy financial burden on ambulance providers, many of whom rely on donations and limited resources to operate. The report highlights that the rising operational costs have made it difficult for these services to maintain their fleets and respond promptly to emergencies.

NGO officials noted that the number of requests for ambulance services has risen sharply, especially in areas where public transport options are limited. However, the higher fuel expenses have forced some organizations to reduce the number of ambulances on the road or limit their coverage areas. This, in turn, has affected patients in need of urgent medical attention, particularly those living in remote or underserved regions.

One NGO representative stated, "We are doing our best to continue providing ambulance services, but the fuel price hike has made it extremely challenging. Our operational costs have increased significantly, and we are struggling to keep up with the demand."

The report further points out that the situation is particularly dire for low-income families who depend on affordable or free ambulance services. With fewer ambulances available and longer response times, patients face delays in reaching hospitals, which can have serious consequences for those requiring immediate care.

Healthcare professionals have expressed concern over the impact of these delays on patient outcomes. They emphasized the need for urgent measures to support ambulance services, such as subsidies or additional funding, to ensure that critical healthcare remains accessible to all segments of the population.

As fuel prices continue to rise, ambulance operators and healthcare advocates are calling on authorities to address the issue and provide relief to organizations working on the frontlines of emergency medical care.