PCV46 Geographic Disparities in Access to Outpatient Stroke Rehabilitation Clinics in Rural Texas

Outpatient rehabilitation is essential for the continuum of post-stroke care to optimize recovery after discharge home. However, despite receiving referrals, only a small percentage stroke survivors utilize these services. With ongoing pandemic, access outpatient has become serious concern, particularly patients living in rural Texas. This study examine geographic disparities clinics, including telerehabilitation (TR), across clinics Texas were identified through internet research. A telephonic survey was conducted collect clinic-level data on physical therapy (PT), occupational (OT), speech-language therapy, and TR availability. Prevalence hospitalization home estimated from 2019 Hospital Inpatient Discharge Public Use Data. Descriptive statistics used identify availability settings compare between metropolitan, micropolitan, non-core counties. Clinics 222 counties (57 40 125 non-core) surveyed. Compared micropolitan counties, had more went back (71.25% vs 78.03%, p = 0.028), indicating greater needs over 60% zero clinics. The number per 1,000 discharged significantly lower compared (53.97 33.81, 0.048). Only 1 10 offered patients, contrast, 2 metropolitan TR. Less than 50% PT, OT, SLP. Stroke have poor tele services high demand care. Immediate attention actions are needed reduce