Disparities in Utilization of Uterine Fibroid Embolization

What are the national utilization patterns and disparities in access to uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) compared with hysterectomy and myomectomy?In this cross-sectional study of 271 885 uterine fibroid encounters, UFE was underutilized (3.5%) compared with hysterectomy (73.4%) and myomectomy (23.1%). Hysterectomy was more common among White, Hispanic, and privately insured patients and in rural areas, whereas UFE was more commonly performed among African American patients, those without private insurance, and those in lower-income communities.These finding suggest that there are substantial disparities in UFE utilization and highlight the need for targeted policies and referral strategies to promote equitable access to minimally invasive fibroid treatments.

Corresponding Author: Tarig S. Elhakim, MD, MPH, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Spruce St, Philadelphia, PA 19104 (tarigelhakim@gmail.com).

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