Abstract
This paper explores the relationship between area level measures of social disadvantage and the late referral of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) to a nephrologist. Patients who were referred late were those who needed to commence dialysis within 3 months of referral to a nephrologist. Late referral has been associated with increased morbidity and mortality. We studied 3334 patients who started ESRD treatment in Australian capital cities between 1 April 1995 and 31 December 1998. The proportion referred late varied between areas, was higher in areas of greater disadvantage and was significantly related to the age- and sex-standardised incidence of ESRD. This may indicate inequitable access to optimal pre-ESRD care.
Original language | English |
---|---|
Pages (from-to) | 175-182 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | Health and Place |
Volume | 9 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2003 |