Inequitable access to neurosurgical care in the United States
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By
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Linda Liverani
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Nina Dwumfour-Poku
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Corinna C. Zygourakis
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Silvia D. Vaca
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June 18, 2026
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Clinical Scorecard: Disparities in Access to Neurosurgical Services Across the United States
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Neurosurgical care access disparities |
| Key Mechanisms | Geographic maldistribution, socioeconomic factors, workforce diversity |
| Target Population | US population, particularly rural and socioeconomically disadvantaged communities |
| Care Setting | Hospital Referral Regions |
Key Highlights
- 9.8% of the US population lacks adequate access to neurosurgical services.
- 80% of US counties lack neurosurgeons.
- Only 2.3% of neurosurgeons practice in nonmetropolitan areas.
- Unemployment, low educational attainment, and poverty predict reduced neurosurgeon availability.
- Female, Black/African-American, and Hispanic medical students show intention to practice in underserved areas.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Management
Monitoring & Follow-up
Risks
- Delayed treatment for conditions like traumatic brain injury and spinal cord compression leads to worse outcomes.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Individuals in rural and socioeconomically disadvantaged areas
Financial burden of traveling long distances for care disproportionately affects low-income and minority populations.
Clinical Best Practices
- Expand telemedicine networks.
- Implement rural training tracks.
- Adopt intersectional recruitment strategies.
Related Resources & Content
