The role of health expenditures and education level of the population in the intensity of emergency medicine service (EMS)
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https://doi.org/10.26900/hsq.2764Keywords:
Emergency medical services, health expenditure, education, literacy, public health, healthcare utilizationAbstract
This study examines the impact of education and healthcare expenditures on emergency medicine service (EMS) usage in Türkiye (2002–2023). It explores how literacy, school enrolment, and public healthcare spending influence EMS demand. Lower literacy and enrolment may increase emergency visits, reducing EMS efficiency. Public healthcare spending improves primary care, easing EMS congestion, while private healthcare spending may increase EMS use through easier access. A descriptive and relational scanning model was used to categorize EMS utilization per 100,000 populations. Data on EMS use, education and healthcare expenditures were collected from official sources. Pearson correlation, multiple regression and year controlled partial correlation were applied. The R squared value confirmed model fit and identified education and healthcare spending as key EMS predictors. Limitations include aggregated data and untested factors. Future research should explore the relations hip between socioeconomic status and healthcare infrastructure. Primary school enrolment negatively correlated with EMS use (r=-0.890, p<0.01), while literacy rate had a positive correlation (r=0.992, p<0.01). Public healthcare spending reduced EMS demand, but regression analysis indicated that literacy rate was the strongest predictor of EMS utilization (B=142.13, p<0.01). Education significantly influences EMS use. Higher literacy rates increase EMS utilization, while school enrolment reduces it. Strengthening health literacy and primary care can enhance EMS effectiveness.
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