2101 Examining Demographic Characteristics and Referral Patterns for Patients Referred to a Tertiary Neurosurgery Center

INTRODUCTION: The study investigates how demographic factors such as race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and geographic location affect neurosurgical referral patterns, revealing significant disparities and highlighting the need for equitable access to neurosurgical care. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted using data from 2017 to 2022 from a major hospital system in Texas, with IRB approval. Subjects included patients referred to a neurosurgeon from external healthcare providers, identified based on specific inclusion criteria. Data were extracted from electronic medical records and analyzed to determine the demographic characteristics of patients referred for neurosurgical evaluation and those who underwent subsequent surgical intervention. RESULTS: The study included 8,699 patients, with a mean age of 65.83 years. Gender distribution was balanced (54.95% females, 45.05% males). The majority of patients were non-Hispanic (82.60%) and Caucasian (81.23%). Only 11.3% of referred patients received surgery, with lumbar and cervical surgeries being the most frequent. Significant racial and ethnic disparities were observed, with Caucasian patients more likely to be referred and receive surgery compared to minority groups (p < 0.0001). The mean duration from referral to surgery was approximately 2.47 years. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights significant demographic disparities in neurosurgical referrals and outcomes. Older adults and Caucasian patients are more likely to be referred and undergo surgery, pointing to potential systemic biases. The prolonged waiting periods for surgical intervention emphasize the need for streamlined referral processes. Addressing disparities is crucial for ensuring equitable access to neurosurgical care and optimizing patient outcomes. Future research should focus on identifying the root causes of these disparities and developing targeted interventions to improve healthcare equity.