Geospatial Distribution of Neurosurgeons Age 60 and Older Relative to the Spread of COVID-19

• Authors: Tarun K. Jella, Case Western Reserve University; Ansh Desai, Case Western Reserve University; Taral Jella, Emory University; Michael Steinmetz, Cleveland Clinic Foundation; Kristopher Kimmell, University of Rochester; James Wright, Cleveland Clinic Foundation; Christina Huang Wright, Cleveland Clinic Foundation
• Journal Title: World Neurosurgery
• Volume: Volume 145
• Publisher: Elsevier | 2020-10-14, Pages e259-e266
• Type of Work: Article | Final Publisher PDF
• Publisher DOI: http://doi.org/10.1016/j.wneu.2020.10.037
• Subjects: Biology, Virology; Biology, Neuroscience; Health Sciences, Medicine and Surgery; Health Sciences, Public Health
• Keywords: Age distribution; At-risk; Coronavirus; COVID-19; Neurosurgeons; Pandemic

Abstract

Objective To perform an ecological study to analyze the geospatial distribution of neurosurgeons ≥60 years old and compare these data with the spread of 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) across the United States. Methods Data regarding distribution of COVID-19 cases were collected from the Environmental Systems Research Institute, and demographic statistics were collected from the American Association of Medical Colleges 2019 State Workforce Reports. These figures were analyzed using geospatial mapping software. Results As of July 5, 2020, the 10 states with the highest number of COVID-19 cases showed older neurosurgical workforce proportions (the proportion of active surgeons ≥60 years old) of 20.6%–38.9%. Among states with the highest number of COVID-19 deaths, the older workforce proportions were 25.0%–43.4%. Connecticut demonstrated the highest with 43.4% of neurosurgeons ≥60 years old. Conclusions Regional COVID-19 hotspots may coincide with areas where a substantial proportion of the neurosurgical workforce is ≥60 years old. Continuous evaluation and adjustment of local and national clinical practice guidelines are warranted throughout the pandemic era.