Disproportionate Emergency Surgery Costs Impact Underrepresented Racial and Ethnic Groups

A comprehensive national study highlights significant disparities in the costs associated with emergency surgeries among racial and ethnic minorities in the United States. The research, published in Surgery Open Science, reveals that Black, Hispanic, and Asian/Pacific Islander patients face substantially higher financial burdens when undergoing emergency procedures compared to white patients. This discrepancy stems from unequal access to preventive healthcare, leading to a higher likelihood of emergency surgeries, which are more costly and associated with worse outcomes.

The study analyzed data from over 3 million patients between 2011 and 2020, focusing on three major procedures: abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, coronary artery bypass, and colon cancer resection. These procedures are ideally performed electively, with better prognosis and lower costs, when caught early through routine screening.

Results showed that, on average, emergency surgeries incurred $13,645 more per patient than elective surgeries—representing a 33% increase. Costs were especially higher for minority groups: Black patients faced an additional $15,552, Hispanic patients $14,525, and Asian/Pacific Islanders $16,887, compared to $13,086 for white patients. The proportion of emergency surgeries also rose over the decade, increasing overall healthcare costs and risking worse health outcomes, including higher mortality and complications.

The findings emphasize that expanding preventive health services and screening programs in underserved communities could significantly reduce both costs and health disparities. Experts suggest policy efforts should aim at improving insurance coverage for preventive care, addressing social determinants of health, and implementing targeted community health initiatives.

Lead researcher Dr. Saad Mallick from UCLA stressed that many of these emergency cases are preventable, highlighting a pressing need for systemic changes to ensure equitable access to healthcare. The study underscores a critical gap in our healthcare system that, if addressed, could lead to substantial savings and improved patient outcomes.