A new national study reveals that emergency surgeries are not only more expensive than planned procedures—they also disproportionately burden Black, Hispanic, and Asian/Pacific Islander patients. Researchers found that these groups face significantly higher costs and worse outcomes, largely due to unequal access to preventive care.
Emergency procedures cost an average of $13,645 more per patient than planned surgeries. But for Black patients, the added cost was $15,552—19% higher than the average for white patients. Hispanic patients paid $14,525 more, and Asian/Pacific Islander patients faced an additional $16,887. These disparities reflect a healthcare system where those least able to afford care are often forced into the most expensive and dangerous situations.
Dr. Saad Mallick, the study’s lead author, said, “These numbers reflect real individuals and families who face significant financial and health challenges due to unequal access to preventive care.” He emphasized that many of these surgeries are preventable with proper screening for conditions like aneurysms, heart disease, and colorectal cancer.
The study analyzed data from over 3 million patients and found that emergency surgeries were associated with higher death rates, more complications, and longer hospital stays. Researchers estimate that converting just 10% of emergency procedures into planned surgeries could save nearly $1.8 billion annually.
The findings point to an urgent need for expanded community health programs and better insurance coverage for preventive services—especially in communities of color.
See “Emergency Surgeries Cost More—and Racial Disparities Are Driving Up the Bill” (June 3, 2025)
