Editorial Commentary: Socioeconomic Disparities in Health Outcomes—The Patient Behind the Procedure
Authors: Domb BG, McCarroll TR
DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2024.07.001
Journal: Arthroscopy, April 2025
Objective
To highlight how socioeconomic status impacts health outcomes in orthopedic surgery and emphasize strategies to reduce disparities.
Key Findings
- Persistent disparities in healthcare access and follow-up care for underinsured and socioeconomically disadvantaged patients.
- Standardized surgical protocols improve outcomes, but individual support is critical.
- Enhancing health literacy, building strong patient-provider relationships, and ensuring consistent follow-up help mitigate disparities.
Conclusion
Healthcare systems must prioritize personalized care and support, alongside equal access, to achieve equitable outcomes across socioeconomic groups.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
- Screen for socioeconomic barriers that may affect adherence, follow-up, and recovery.
- Tailor communication and postoperative plans to patient resources and literacy.
- Coordinate multidisciplinary support (social work, case management) to address non-medical factors influencing outcomes.