Racial and sex disparities in utilization rates for shoulder arthroplasty in the United States disparities in shoulder arthroplasty
Josef K. Eichingera, Alyssa R. Greenhousea, Meghana V. Raoa, Eric R. Gordona, Daniel Brintona, Xinning Lib, Emily J. Curryb, Richard J. Friedmana
Abstract
Purpose: To investigate racial disparities in shoulder arthroplasty (SA), accounting for demographic factors such as sex and age.
Methods: Data for SAs (2011–2014) was queried from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Nationwide Inpatient Sample. Population-adjusted SA utilization rates, racial and sex differences by age, length of stay, insurer, and comorbidities were calculated.
Results: Caucasians aged 45–64 are 54% more likely than African-Americans and 74% than Hispanics to receive surgery. For patients aged 65–84, the disparity is wider for African-Americans and narrower for Hispanics.
Conclusions: Policymakers and physicians should focus on further national efforts to alleviate healthcare disparities.
