Small area variation refers to the differences or variations in healthcare utilization or outcomes among relatively small geographic areas, such as neighborhoods, cities, or regions. This concept is commonly applied in health services research and public health to analyze and understand the uneven distribution of healthcare resources and outcomes across different areas.
The term "small area variation" was first introduced by epidemiologist John Wennberg in the 1970s. It is often used to investigate the impact of geographic factors, such as healthcare supply, physician practice patterns, and patient population characteristics, on healthcare utilization and quality.
Small area variation analysis involves comparing and quantifying the differences in healthcare measures, such as hospital admission rates, surgery rates, prescription rates, or mortality rates, across different geographic areas. This analysis helps identify areas that have significantly higher or lower healthcare utilization or outcomes compared to the expected averages or rates.
By examining small area variation, researchers and policymakers can identify areas with excessive or inadequate healthcare resource allocation, identify potential overuse or underuse of healthcare services, and explore potential reasons for these variations. This information can inform policies and interventions aimed at improving access to quality care and reducing unwarranted variations in healthcare delivery.
In summary, small area variation refers to the differences in healthcare utilization and outcomes across relatively small geographic areas, and its analysis provides valuable insights into the factors influencing disparities in healthcare delivery and resource allocation.
