Racial Disparities in the Cost of Unplanned Hospitalizations After Breast Reconstruction
February 2023
in “
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
”
Studysummary This study found that racial minorities face higher costs for unplanned hospital visits after surgery despite controlling for insurance, highlighting health care disparities and suggesting revised payment models as a potential mitigation strategy.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The study found that while race was not an independent predictor of unplanned hospital visits after breast reconstruction surgery, racial minorities experienced a higher cost burden even after accounting for insurance status. This highlighted ongoing health care disparities. The researchers suggested that adjusted payment models could help reduce these disparities in surgical care. They also recommended using both direct and indirect measures to more effectively identify and address the consequences of health care inequities.
