Low Income Linked to Higher Surgical Complications and Mortality Rates

Lower patient income significantly increases the risk of postoperative complications and mortality within 90 days of surgery. A comprehensive analysis of 36 studies involving over 24 million patients revealed that those on Medicaid and Medicare face higher odds of adverse outcomes compared to their privately insured counterparts. Specifically, Medicaid patients showed a 1.85 times greater risk of 30-day mortality. Understanding these socioeconomic disparities is crucial for improving surgical care and patient outcomes.