Abstract
BackgroundAccess to high-quality care for revision total joint arthroplasty (rTJA) is poorly understood but may vary based on insurance type. This study investigated distance traveled for hip and knee rTJA based on insurance type. MethodsA total of 317 revision hips and 431 revision knees performed between 2010 and 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Cluster sampling was used to select primary hips and knees for comparison. Median driving distance was compared based upon procedure and insurance type. ResultsRevision hip and knee patients traveled 18.2 and 11.0 miles farther for surgery compared to primary hip and knee patients (P ≤ .001). For hip rTJA, Medicaid patients traveled farther than Medicare patients followed by commercially insured patients with median distances traveled of 98.4, 67.2, and 35.6 miles, respectively (P = .016). Primary hip patients traveled the same distance regardless of insurance type (P = .397). For knee rTJA, Medicaid patients traveled twice as far as Medicare and commercially insured patients (medians of 85.0, 43.5, and 42.2 miles respectively, P ≤ .046). Primary knee patients showed a similar pattern (P = .264). Age and ASA-PS classification did not indicate greater comorbidity in Medicaid patients. ConclusionInsurance type may influence rTJA referrals, with disproportionate referral of Medicaid and Medicare patients to nonlocal care centers. In addition to patient burden, these patterns potentially present a financial burden to facilities accepting referrals. Strategies to improve equitable access to rTJA, while maintaining the highest and most economical standards of care for patients, providers, and hospitals, are encouraged.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.