Response Times for NYC Ambulances Increase by Over 40% Amid Rising Emergencies

A report from the city comptroller’s office indicates that New York City’s emergency medical services are experiencing increased response times, even as incidents of life-threatening emergencies have risen. An analysis of FDNY data spanning from fiscal years 2015 to 2026 shows that such emergencies have surged by more than 22%. The report reveals that the response time for these critical situations has lengthened by almost four minutes—over a 41% increase.

Factors contributing to this decline include maintenance issues within the FDNY ambulance fleet and low salaries for EMTs and paramedics. On one occasion in January, only 360 ambulances were available against a target of 488. The City Council has advocated for hiring additional emergency medical staff to alleviate this issue, but high turnover rates due to inadequate pay remain a challenge. The current base salary for EMTs is under $44,000, with salaries not keeping pace with those in similar private-sector roles, which may cost the city $352 million to rectify. Comptroller Mark Levine emphasized the need for fair compensation alongside strategies to improve emergency response capabilities.