Geographic and Temporal Differences in Sickle Cell Disease Hospitalizations in New York State

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Services Research
• Hematology

Background:

• Sickle cell disease (SCD) disproportionately impacts minority populations in the US, leading to significant morbidity and healthcare utilization.
• Geographic and temporal patterns in SCD hospitalization outcomes are not well-characterized at the population level.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze temporal trends and regional variations in sickle cell disease hospitalizations within New York State.
• To assess changes in hospitalization outcomes, including severity and mortality risk, from 2009 to 2022.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cross-sectional study utilizing the New York State Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System deidentified database (2009-2022).
• Included 42,271 inpatient SCD hospitalizations, analyzing regional distribution, length of stay, total charges, and severity/mortality risk using All Patient Refined Diagnosis Related Groups.

Main Results:

• Most SCD hospitalizations occurred in Black individuals (83.6%) and younger adults (18-49 years). New York City had the highest volume.
• Significant regional disparities observed in length of stay (Central NY longest) and total charges (Long Island highest).
• Proportion of hospitalizations with major severity and major risk of mortality increased significantly from 2009 to 2022 statewide.

Conclusions:

• Geographic and temporal disparities in SCD hospitalization outcomes exist across New York State.
• Findings underscore the necessity for region-specific interventions to enhance care access, reduce severe outcomes, and optimize resource allocation for SCD patients.