ABSTRACT
Hepatopancreaticobiliary cancers are among the most diagnosed cancers in the world. However, although high-income countries have the highest incidence rates, low- and middle-income countries have the highest mortality rates. In this article, we describe the geographic distribution of board-certified hepatopancreaticobiliary surgeons who provide surgical management for patients with these diseases in the Philippines. We draw attention to the geographic disparities in the distribution of these surgeons and the other factors that contribute to the lack of access. Lastly, we suggest ways forward.
Subject(s)
Neoplasms , Surgeons , Humans , Philippines/epidemiology , IncomeABSTRACT
Female breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide; however, while high-income countries have the highest incidence rates, lower-middle income countries have the highest mortality rates. In this article, we describe the landscape of disparities in access to surgical care for patients with breast cancer in the Philippines, a lower-middle income country in Southeast Asia. We describe the payment landscape that allows access to care for patients with non-metastatic disease, and draw attention to the fact that despite some degree of insurance for most Filipinos, great barriers to access remain in the form of a low number of surgical providers, geographic disparities, and persistent socioeconomic barriers. Lastly, we suggest steps forward to improve equity in access to surgical care for Filipino patients with breast cancer.
