Travel burden and bypassing closest site for surgical cancer treatment for urban and rural oncology patients.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

We examined the relationship between travel burden for surgical cancer care and rurality, geographic bypass of the nearest surgical facility, cancer type, and mortality outcomes.

Methods

Using Medicare claims and enrollment data (2016-2018) from beneficiaries with cancer of the colon, rectum, lung, or pancreas, we measured travel times to: the nearest surgical facility and facility used. For those who bypassed the nearest, we examined travel time and rurality in relation to surgical rates. Using multivariable regression modeling, we estimated associations of bypass with 90-day postoperative- and one-year mortality; rurality was examined as an effect modifier.

Findings

Among 211,025 beneficiaries with cancer, 25.5% resided in non-metropolitan areas. About 66% o

SUBMITTER: Onega T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11950423 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature