Geographic access to pediatric neurosurgeons in the USA: an analysis of sociodemographic factors

• DOI: 10.1007/s00381-023-06172-z
• Publication Date: 2023-10-04T18:02:01Z
• Authors: Daniel Farivar; Nicholas J. Peterman; Nakul Narendran; Kenneth D. Illing...; Teryl K. Nuckols; David Bonda; David L. Skaggs
• Keywords: Location; Zip code

Abstract Purpose Geographic access to physicians has been shown be unevenly distributed in the USA, with those closer proximity having superior outcomes. The purpose of this study was describe how geographic pediatric neurosurgeons varies across socioeconomic and demographic factors. Methods Actively practicing were identified by matching several registries membership logs. This data used find their primary practice locations distance average person a county must travel visit surgeon. Counties categorized into “surgeon deserts” clusters,” which counties where providers significantly further or its residents, respectively, compared national average. These groups also for differences population characteristics using obtained from 2020 American Community Survey. Results A total 439 identified. surgeon desert cluster found 189.2 ± 78.1 miles 39.7 19.6 away nearest neurosurgeon, respectively. Multivariate analyses showed that higher Rural–Urban Continuum (RUC) codes ( p < 0.001), percentages Indian 0.001) Hispanic residents independently associated traveled surgeons. Conclusion Patients residing greater RUC on need distances neurosurgeons.