Geographic access to hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

e16517 Background: Hematopoietic Stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has been used with considerable success in the management of patients with otherwise incurable malignant and nonmalignant conditions. Transplantation is a resource-intensive endeavor that requires specialized personnel and equipment available through a limited number of institutions. Transplant patients tend to undergo prolonged hospitalizations and require frequent follow up visits. The optimal geographic distribution of transplant centers has not been determined, in fact the current distribution of centers relative to geographic area and population is unknown. Methods: Using the 2008 county level census estimate data, the proportion of the population living within a combined statistical area (CSA) with a transplant center or within an hour-travel of one was determined. Combined Statistical Areas, as defined by the Office of Budget and Management (OMB), comprise two or more adjacent Metropolitan or Micropolitan Statistical Areas that have ...