Geographic Distribution of Otolaryngologists in Illinois

Introduction: There has long been debate noted within academic literature regarding whether the supply of otolaryngologists is able to meet the demand. We sought to analyze the total number of otolaryngologists practicing in the state of Illinois and determine, based on population density and county size, if there is an equitable distribution of otolaryngologists across the state.

Methods: In November 2022, a list of 291 otolaryngologists from Illinois was obtained from the American Academy of Otolaryngology (AAO) website which includes data on 93% of otolaryngologists practicing in the United States. We determined the number of otolaryngologists per capita in rural versus urban counties in Illinois as well as the practice location of each listed otolaryngologist. Classification of an urban or rural practice was determined using the zip code associated with the practice. The definition of urban and rural was determined using Illinois Department of Public Health criteria.

Results: Of the 291 otolaryngologists with a primary practice location in Illinois, approximately 93% practiced in urban counties. In addition, 96.6% of otolaryngologists specializing in certain procedures (ie, Cochlear implantation), patient populations (ie, pediatrics), or areas of focus (ie, cosmetics) are located in urban counties within Illinois. Urban counties yielded an average of 2.43 otolaryngologists per 100,000 people, whereas in rural counties, there are only 0.99 otolaryngologists per 100,000 people.

Conclusions: The concentration of otolaryngologists among high-income urban areas further exacerbates health care disparities in rural regions. Despite the clear need for specialized otolaryngologic care in rural counties, the Illinois otolaryngology workforce remains preferentially located in urban and suburban areas.