Association of age with treatment at high-volume hospitals and distance traveled for care, in patients with rectal cancer who seek curative resection

Background The association between volume and outcomes has led to recommendations that patients undergo surgery at high-volume centers. We aimed to determine if older patients with rectal cancer are undergoing operations at high-volume centers. Methods We identified patients ≥50 years old who underwent rectal cancer resection using the NCDB (2004–2015). Tertiles were used to categorize facility volume and distance traveled. Results Higher facility volume was associated with improved outcomes. Patients >75 years old were less likely than patients 50–59 years old to be treated at high-volume centers. Traveling >16.8 miles was associated with treatment at high-volume facilities, however patients >75 years old were less likely to travel >16.8 miles. Conclusions Higher facility volume is associated with improved outcomes after rectal cancer resection. However, older patients are less likely to be treated at high-volume facilities. Older patients travel shorter distances for care, suggesting that care integration across networks must be optimized.