Disparities in Cost and Access by Caseload for Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: An Analysis of 18,616 Cases

Abstract

There are disparities in access to high-volume surgeons and facilities for patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair in Florida. Patients with a lower socioeconomic status, government-subsidized insurance, and low income all faced decreased access to these high-volume groups. High-volume surgeons and facilities were associated with lower total charges, higher rates of distal clavicle excision, and lower readmission rates. Low-volume facilities added a significant amount of cost, even when controlling for all other significant variables. It is important for providers to be aware of these disparities and work to address them in their own practices.