Addressing Disparities in Pediatric Congenital Heart Disease: A Call for Equitable Health Care

Authors

Devyani Chowdhury
Pietro A Elliott
S Yukiko Asaki
Shahnawaz Amdani
Quang-Tuyen Nguyen
Christina Ronai
Seda Tierney
Victor Y Levy
Kriti Puri
Carolyn A Altman
Jonathan N Johnson
Julie S Glickstein

Publication Date

7-2-2024

Journal

Journal of the American Heart Association

DOI

10.1161/JAHA.123.032415

PMID

38934870

PMCID

PMC11255720

PubMedCentral® Posted Date

6-27-2024

PubMedCentral® Full Text Version

Post-print

Published Open-Access

yes

Keywords

Humans, Heart Defects, Congenital, Healthcare Disparities, Child, Health Services Accessibility, United States, Infant, Infant, Newborn, Socioeconomic Factors, Child, Preschool

Abstract

While significant progress has been made in reducing disparities within the US health care system, notable gaps remain. This article explores existing disparities within pediatric congenital heart disease care. Congenital heart disease, the most common birth defect and a leading cause of infant death, has garnered substantial attention, revealing certain disparities within the US health care system. Factors such as race, ethnicity, insurance coverage, socioeconomic status, and geographic location are all commonalities that significantly affect health disparities in pediatric congenital heart disease. This comprehensive review sheds light on disparities from diverse perspectives in pediatric care, demonstrates the inequities and inequalities leading to these disparities, presents effective solutions, and issues a call to action for providers, institutions, and the health care system. Recognizing and addressing these disparities is imperative for ensuring equitable care and enhancing the long-term well-being of children affected by congenital heart disease. Implementing robust, evidence-based frameworks that promote responsible and safe interventions is fundamental to enduring change.