Impact of COVID-19 geographic distribution on advanced age plastic surgeons: A cross-sectional analysis

• Authors: Michael Wells, Case Western Reserve University; Tarun K. Jella, Case Western Reserve University; David X. Zheng, Case Western Reserve University; Irene A. Chang, Case Western Reserve University; Alexandria L. Gerber, Case Western Reserve University; Taral Jella, Emory University; James R. Gatherwright, MetroHealth Medical Center
• Journal Title: Journal of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery
• Volume: Volume 74, Number 7
• Publisher: Elsevier | 2020-12-26, Pages 1633-1701
• Type of Work: Article | Final Publisher PDF
• Publisher DOI: http://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjps.2020.12.049
• Subjects: Health Sciences, Health Care Management; Health Sciences, Epidemiology; Health Sciences, Public Health; Sociology, Organizational
• Keywords: Plastic surgery; COVID-19; Advanced age; Surgeons; Health Care Sciences & Services; Geographic variation

Abstract

The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, responsible for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), was first identified in Wuhan, China, and has since spread worldwide. Among countries struggling to contain the spread of COVID-19, the United States (U.S.) has been particularly heavily affected. Since recording a new single-day peak of 83,010 cases on October 23, 2020,1 the U.S. has continued to experience record highs in daily confirmed COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. Increased susceptibility to severe COVID-19 has been noted in certain populations (e.g., individuals over age 60).2 Advanced age patients are at increased risk of COVID-19 morbidity and mortality, and represent a potential for nosocomial transmission to healthcare providers.