Geographic Trends and Geospatial Analysis of Head and Neck Fellowship-Trained Surgeons.

BACKGROUND: Disparities in access to otolaryngology and cancer care exist across the United States. However, little is known about the geographic distribution of fellowship-trained head and neck cancer (HNC) surgeons. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of American Head and Neck Society (AHNS) fellowship graduates from July 1, 1997 to June 30, 2022 was conducted. Geospatial and statistical analysis was conducted to assess current practice location and correlations with training regions. RESULTS: Among 688 graduates, 622 practice in the US or Canada. Most graduates remained in the region of their training. Geospatial analysis showed concentration of graduates in urban areas, with 152 of 3142 US counties having higher-than-expected density. Underserved regions were identified in the southeastern US, southern border, and western states. CONCLUSIONS: Head and neck surgical fellowship graduates predominantly practice in large urban areas, leaving rural and underserved regions with limited access to complex HNC care. Strategic interventions are needed to address these gaps.

Duke Scholars

Author Nosayaba Osazuwa-Peters Head & Neck Surgical Oncology