To examine the inequities in access to neurosurgical care in the United States, focusing on workforce composition, distribution, and training pathways, including specific factors influencing these aspects.
Key Findings:
Approximately 9.8% of the US population lacks adequate access to neurosurgical services.
80% of US counties lack neurosurgeons, with only 2.3% practicing in nonmetropolitan areas.
States with fewer training programs show lower representation of women in neurosurgery.
Graduating medical students who are female, Black/African-American, or Hispanic are more likely to intend to practice in underserved areas.
Interpretation:
Geographic access and workforce diversity are interconnected, with significant disparities affecting rural and socioeconomically disadvantaged communities; addressing these disparities is crucial for equitable healthcare.
Limitations:
The review is limited to studies published between 2015 and 2025.
Findings may not fully capture the nuances of regional disparities in neurosurgical access.
Potential biases in the literature reviewed may affect the comprehensiveness of the findings.
Conclusion:
Addressing geographic, socioeconomic, and gender disparities is essential for ensuring timely access to neurosurgical care.
