Disparities in orthopaedic surgical intervention

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic surgery
• Health equity research

Background:

• Race- and ethnicity-based health disparities are documented in general healthcare and specifically within orthopaedics.
• Existing research has explored disparities in cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hip/knee arthroplasty candidacy.
• Disparities in total hip and knee replacement surgery rates are the most studied area within orthopaedic health inequities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the underlying causes of health disparities in orthopaedics.
• To identify key factors contributing to inequities in orthopaedic care.
• To provide a foundation for addressing health disparities in orthopaedics and overall healthcare.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on health disparities in orthopaedics.
• Analysis of patient-, provider-, and health care-related factors.
• Identification of knowledge gaps in understanding orthopaedic health inequities.

Main Results:

• The precise reasons for race- and ethnicity-based health disparities in orthopaedics are not fully understood.
• Significant research exists on disparities in joint replacement surgery rates.
• A comprehensive examination of patient, provider, and healthcare system factors is lacking.

Conclusions:

• Further investigation into patient, provider, and healthcare system factors is crucial.
• Addressing health disparities requires a multi-faceted approach.
• Understanding the root causes is essential for developing targeted interventions to promote health equity in orthopaedics.