Accessibility as a major determinant of radiotherapy underutilization: a population based study.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

A survey was conducted of radiotherapy (RT) resources and utilization in a northwestern Italian Region in order to assess geographical variations in radiotherapy utilization rates, and the effects of infrastructure supply on accessibility.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The survey was conducted by analysing standardized utilization rates based on administrative records. The data were analysed at both Regional and Local Health Unit (LHU) level.

RESULTS

Wide variation was found among LHUs RT utilization rates--the sex- and age-standardized rates varied from 1.8/1000 inhabitants to more than 3/1000 inhabitants. Patients resident in LHUs with no RT service showed a lower probability of accessing RT (standardized rate ratio (SRR), 0.82; 95%IC, 0.80-0.85). The utilization rate decreased in relation to the distance between a patient's residence and the nearest RT service; the reduction was greater for patients > or =70 years of age.

CONCLUSION

The wide geographic variation implies lack of equity in access to services. Utilization levels decreased significantly with increasing distance from the nearest RT service, distance being a barrier to access particularly for older persons. The heterogeneous distribution of services on the Regional territory seems a relevant explanation of differences in utilization rates.