Bridging the gaps in interventional cardiology disparities—socioeconomic, geographic, and political inequalities

Abstract

Despite significant advancements in interventional cardiology, including PCI, TAVI, and other structural heart interventions, access to these life-saving procedures remains uneven across the globe. This viewpoint highlights how socioeconomic, geographic, and political disparities impact clinical decision-making, outcomes, and professional well-being. Drawing from real-world experience and health systems analysis, the article explores the multifaceted barriers that hinder equitable care—ranging from health literacy and rural access to workforce shortages and regulatory or reimbursement challenges. It further discusses the psychological burden on clinicians caused by moral distress and limited resources. Potential solutions, including telemedicine, decentralized training, public awareness campaigns, and policy advocacy, are proposed to bridge the gap and promote a more just and inclusive landscape in interventional cardiology.