Cost/benefit analysis of an e-ambulance project in Kochi Prefecture, Japan

Abstract

This study aims at evaluating the economic effect of an e-ambulance project, or emergency telemedicine in the rural areas in Kochi Prefecture in Japan. Ambulances equipped with ICT devices which transmit images of acute patients to remote hospitals are focused on. Kochi Prefecture started an eambulance project in Aki and Muroto Cities in 2012. From two cities, it takes approximately one hour to reach emergency hospitals located in Kochi City, the prefectural capital. e-ambulance enhances wellness of residents, since they perceive more secure, and thus the CVM (Contingent valuation method) is applied and WTP (willingness to pay) is used as benefit and estimated based on surveys to residents, which amounts to 1,747 yen per resident per year. Total cost calculated is 381,792,228 yen over three years and accordingly, B/C ratio amounts 0.459. This study calculated another B/C ratio from the viewpoint of two local governments.