Assessment of capacity for vascular disease care in Argentina following consensus recommendations.

Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular disease is the first cause of death in Argentina, accounting for more than 30% of deaths. Despite this significant healthcare burden, capacity assessment for vascular care has not been previously carried out in Argentina. The aim of this study was to perform an assessment of the current capabilities for evaluation and treatment of cardiovascular disease in Buenos Aires, Argentina in order to assist with data-driven recommendations regarding regionalization of care using geographic population assessment. Methods: A survey following the Consensus Recommendations in Vascular Care was administered to medical doctors practicing at hospitals in the Province of Buenos Aires. Population density, catchment area and travel times were calculated using PlanWise and Resource Map software tools. Results: Overall survey response rate was 71 %. Capacity analysis showed that all interzonal hospitals were able to deliver essential vascular care. There was polarization of resources in three geographic areas; naïve coverage analysis showed more than 70% of population lacking access to essential vascular care. Conclusions: Vascular care capability varies between geographic areas with approximately only 30% of the population having access to essential vascular care. The present study provides a novel analysis of vascular care capacities following the Consensus recommendations and geographic evaluation of at risk patients. Thoughtful planning of interventions, including allocation of resources and regionalization of care can yield significant benefits