Published in Gastroenterology, a commentary by University of Minnesota Medical School researchers found that medically underserved people (Black, American Indian/Alaska Native or Hispanic) are three times more likely to cancel their endoscopy related to issues with COVID-19 testing requirements.
“While well-intentioned, additional requirements for care often create barriers that are not equal across race,” said Elizabeth Aby, a University of Minnesota Medical School fellow.
The research team examined all consecutive canceled outpatient endoscopic procedures between March 1 and September 7, 2021, at the University of Minnesota Medical Center.
While the cancelation reasons for endoscopy are documented routinely, additional information on the specific barriers that led to the disparity were not available. Researchers believe multiple factors likely contributed including patient-, provider- and system-level factors. These barriers can lead to delays in diagnosis and management of gastrointestinal illnesses. It also has the potential to lead to higher rates of cancer-related morbidity and death.
Source: Read Full Article