Socioeconomic Disparities in Otolaryngology: No Easy Explanations, No Easy Answers

Another way to look at the health of a population is to look at international comparisons. According to data from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) 2007 Fact Book, the average life expectancy at birth in the United States in 2003 for men and women was 77.5 years. In Canada it was 79.9, and was an average of 78.1 for OECD countries. The infant mortality rate was 6.8 deaths per 1000 live births in the United States, compared with 5.3 per 1000 in Canada and an average of 5.7 for OECD countries.

It is important for otolaryngologists to be aware of the extent and type of problems patients face because of SES factors, said Dr. Patel. He pointed out that many public hospitals around the country are being closed. Proving there is a need for them can get necessary, timely help to patients. That, along with finding ways to prevent disease, can reduce the patient burden on the health care system.

Trying to solve it is better than just ignoring a growing problem and sweeping it under the rug. In some way it’s going to come back to impact society, Dr. Patel said.

©2008 The Triological Society