Access to Heart Procedures Based on Distance
Author Information
Author(s): Vanasse Alain, Niyonsenga Théophile, Courteau Josiane, Hemiari Abbas
Primary Institution: Université de Sherbrooke
Hypothesis
MI patients living within a short distance from SCC will have a greater proportion of revascularization procedures compared to patients living farther, and that the gap will decrease with time.
Conclusion
The gap in revascularization rates at the index hospitalization for MI is in favor of patients living closer to a SCC, with some reduction in the gap for those living at intermediate distances over the first year.
Supporting Evidence
- The study included 11,802 individuals hospitalized for MI in Quebec.
- Revascularization rates were significantly higher for patients living closer to a SCC.
- A significant gap in revascularization rates was observed at index hospitalization.
Takeaway
People who live closer to heart hospitals are more likely to get heart procedures when they have a heart attack, but some people who live a bit farther away can catch up over time.
Methodology
Population-based cohort study using data from Quebec's hospital discharge register (MED-ECHO) with a follow-up of one year.
Potential Biases
Potential underestimation of deaths in groups living farther may skew results.
Limitations
The use of crow-flight distance as a proxy for travel time may not be valid for all regions, and the accuracy of administrative data needs further validation.
Participant Demographics
66% of participants were men, average age was 66.5 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.0001
Statistical Significance
p < 0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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