A study in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that non-White children experience disparities in access to and outcomes of cleft lip surgery compared to White children. Data showed that non-White children had delays, complications, and longer hospital stays following surgery. While some differences were linked to race/ethnicity, many were also influenced by factors like medical comorbidities, income, insurance type, and location. The study highlights the need for policies to increase equity in pediatric care. Surgeons play a critical role as advocates for addressing disparities in cleft lip repair outcomes. The study included almost 6,000 children undergoing cleft lip surgery between 2006 and 2012.
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