The High Cost of Essential Services: What a $13,000 Ambulance Ride and Expensive Court Reporters Have in Common

A San Francisco runner was shocked by a $13,000 ambulance bill for a short hospital transfer—just one example of skyrocketing costs in essential services. Similarly, California court reporters face criticism for high fees, raising concerns about accessibility in the legal system. Both cases highlight systemic issues of transparency, regulation, and affordability, underscoring the urgent need for reform in service-based industries.