By Todd M. Brown, Gaurav Parmar, Raegan W. Durant, Jewell H. Halanych
Mortality from cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the U.S. has declined over the last several decades.1,2 A large percentage of this decline may be attributed to reductions in risk factor levels as well as improved therapies for secondary prevention in individuals with established CVD.2 However, individuals with CVD who live in areas with limited access to primary care services may not be able to take full advantage of CVD preventive care. Consistent with this hypothesis, individuals in these areas are reported to have lower health status and increased mortality.3-8In an attempt to improve access to primary care physicians in geographic areas or in population groups that lack sufficient access to primary care … Read More