Providing Orthopaedic Care to Vulnerably Underserved Patients: AOA Critical Issues

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Socioeconomic Determinants of Health
• Surgical Care Access

Background:

• The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has improved health insurance coverage for many Americans.
• Despite ACA implementation, significant populations remain underserved, facing challenges accessing healthcare.
• Key underserved groups include the uninsured, underinsured, and Medicaid enrollees.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the persistent access-to-care issues faced by underserved populations.
• To emphasize the impact of social determinants of health on vulnerable patients.
• To inform surgeons about the importance of understanding and addressing the needs of the underserved.

Main Methods:

• This study is a review of current literature and healthcare policy.
• Analysis focuses on the intersection of health insurance status, social determinants, and surgical care access.
• Qualitative insights into the surgeon's role in caring for indigent patients are discussed.

Main Results:

• Underserved patients encounter substantial barriers to accessing timely and appropriate surgical care.
• Social determinants of health profoundly influence the health outcomes and care-seeking behaviors of this population.
• Engaging with and providing care to indigent patients presents unique challenges and rewards.

Conclusions:

• Surgeons must develop a nuanced understanding of social determinants of health to effectively care for underserved patients.
• Addressing the needs of the underserved is critical for achieving health equity in surgical outcomes.
• Caring for indigent patients offers a rewarding experience for both patients and providers.