Abstract

Background

Conflicting evidence exists regarding the relationship between socioeconomic status and access to or outcomes after kidney transplantation. This study analyzed the effects of individual and neighborhood socioeconomic status on kidney transplant access and outcomes in Taiwan.

Methods

We used a retrospective cohort study design and performed comparisons using the Cox proportional hazards model after adjusting for risk factors. Data were collected from the National Health Insurance Bureau of Taiwan data (2003–2012).

Results

Patients with high individual and neighborhood socioeconomic status had higher chances of receiving kidney transplants than those with low individual and neighborhood socioeconomic status [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 2.04; 95% CI: (1.81–2.31), p < 0.001]. However, there were no significant differences in post-transplant graft failure or patient mortality in Taiwan between individuals of varying socioeconomic status after five years. When we stratified kidney transplants by domestic and overseas transplantation, there were no significant differences in post-transplant mortality and graft failure, but individuals who received a kidney graft in Taiwan with high individual and neighborhood socioeconomic status experienced lower risks of graft failure (aHR = 0.55; [95% CI 0.33–0.89], p = 0.017).

Conclusion

A relevant disparity exists in accessing kidney transplantation in Taiwan, depending on individual and neighborhood socioeconomic status. However, results post transplantation were not different after five years. Improved access to waitlisting, education, and welfare support may reduce disparities.

Graphical Abstract