Racial and Ethnic Disparity in Healthcare Expenditure and Resource Utilization Among Patients with Cardiovascular Diseases

Despite extensive research, significant gaps remain in understanding racial disparity among individuals with cardiovascular diseases (CVD). These disparities, influenced by factors such as access to care and comorbid conditions, necessitate further investigation to develop targeted interventions.

To evaluate the factors contributing to racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare resource utilization and total healthcare expenditure among individuals with CVD.

Using data from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey spanning 2014–2021, total healthcare expenditure and having a CVD visit were compared among Hispanic, Black, and White adults with CVD. Descriptive analysis, linear regression, and logistic regression models were used to compare the results. Multivariable models were used to evaluate the effect of demographic and socioeconomic factors on total healthcare expenditure and the likelihood of having a CVD visit among different races.

With a weighted sample of 17,722,706, the study found that Hispanic and Black cohorts had 23% and 11% lower healthcare expenditures (both p < 0.001). Hispanic and Black cohorts also had lower odds of having a CVD visit (odds ratio [OR] = 0.61, 95% confidence interval [CI]:0.55–0.68; OR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.52–0.65, respectively) compared to the White cohort. Key predictors included physical and cognitive limitations, insurance status, income, region, and the year of data collection.

This study highlights the need for targeted interventions to address healthcare disparities and promote health equity among minority populations with CVD.