Socioeconomic Mechanisms

Potential mediators of mortality disparities include unregistered comorbidities, lifestyle, social support, illness perception, and healthcare-seeking behaviour. Postacute transitions, rehabilitation, adherence, and social support may be important for long-term mortality. The article suggests that socioeconomic disparities may operate more through postacute and out-of-hospital factors than acute hospital treatment. The increased long-term hazard ratios were considered compatible with delayed socioeconomic effects mediated by postacute care and living conditions.