A recent study highlights significant disparities in outcomes for in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) among different racial and ethnic groups. Black and Hispanic patients experience higher mortality rates and lower rates of life-saving interventions compared to White patients. The study, which analyzed data from 2016 to 2020, underscores the urgent need for equitable healthcare practices.
Researchers found that Black men had the highest adjusted mortality odds among those with ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation (VT/VF) arrests, followed by Hispanic women and Black women. Additionally, Black patients had significantly reduced odds of receiving percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) compared to White patients. Hispanic men also faced decreased odds of receiving these critical interventions.
The findings emphasize the importance of addressing systemic issues that contribute to these disparities. Clinicians and health systems are encouraged to proactively work towards ensuring high-quality care for all patients, regardless of their racial or ethnic background. Efforts to improve access to care and reduce implicit biases in treatment decisions are crucial steps in mitigating these disparities.
In summary, the study reveals that racial and ethnic disparities significantly impact the outcomes of in-hospital cardiac arrest, highlighting a critical area for improvement in healthcare equity.
See: “In-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Outcomes Affected By Racial, Ethnic and Sex Disparities” (February 7, 2025)
