A recent article in Drug Topics, reports on the findings of a study presented at the 2023 American Thoracic Society International Conference, held from May 19 to 24 in Washington, DC, which reveals that the majority of patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) live in an area that has a shortage of health care professionals, according to research
Investigators conducted a retrospective claims-based study to understand the geographic characteristics of patients treated for PAH in the United States. The study cohort included 10,677 patients aged between 48.8 and 71.3, of which the majority were women. Enrollment ZIP codes were used to determine whether a patient lived in a health professional shortage area and distance to their prescriber was measured by the straight-line distance from the patient’s ZIP code to the address of the prescriber of first PAH treatment.
Commentary by Pisana Ferrari:
This study highlights a critical issue that extends far beyond the borders of the United States. While advancements in pulmonary arterial hypertension treatment offer new hope and life-saving possibilities for patients, a sobering reality persists: there are individuals residing in regions or countries where access to essential medications and specialised surgical facilities remains limited or inadequately covered by national health services and insurance providers.
The significance of addressing these disparities cannot be overstated. Every individual diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension deserves an equal opportunity to pursue a better quality of life, unencumbered by geographical boundaries or financial constraints. It is a matter of equity and human rights. As we recognise the impact of this issue, it becomes imperative to foster global collaboration and advocacy.
Read the full article at this link on the Drug Topics web page
Reference
Anderson N, Schablik J, Classi P, et al. Understanding Differences in Geographic Access to Care Among Patients Treated for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in the United States. Presented at: American Thoracic Society International Conference; May 19-24, 2023; Washington, DC. Poster 1093.