Patient Sociodemographic Characteristics Associated With Saturday Breast Imaging Clinic Utilization

Area of Science:

• Radiology and Imaging
• Public Health
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Access to timely breast cancer screening and diagnostic services is crucial for early detection and improved outcomes.
• Disparities in healthcare access persist, particularly for underserved populations.
• Understanding utilization patterns of extended hours services can inform strategies to mitigate these disparities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify sociodemographic factors associated with Saturday breast imaging utilization.
• To inform initiatives aimed at enhancing access and reducing disparities in breast cancer care.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cross-sectional study of adult women undergoing breast imaging from January 2016 to December 2017.
• Data collected included age, race, primary language, partnership status, insurance, and primary care physician status.
• Multivariable logistic regression analyzed patient characteristics linked to Saturday utilization.

Main Results:

• 9.6% of screening mammograms and 2.0% of diagnostic exams occurred on Saturdays.
• Racial/ethnic minorities were more likely to have Saturday screening mammograms (OR, 1.5; 95% CI: 1.4-1.6).
• Women speaking English as a second language also showed higher likelihood for Saturday screening mammograms (OR, 1.1; 95% CI: 1.0-1.3).

Conclusions:

• Racial/ethnic minorities and non-native English speakers disproportionately utilized Saturday breast imaging.
• Extending breast imaging availability beyond standard hours can improve access for underserved groups.
• Targeted initiatives offering weekend services can serve as a tool to reduce breast cancer care disparities.