Enhanced Recovery After Surgery and Surgical Disparities

Surgical disparities exist. Certain surgical populations suffer from disproportionately worse access, care, and outcomes in surgery. Opportunities exist to better identify, understand, and reduce these disparities. Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) pathways use standardized perioperative processes and a multidisciplinary philosophy to deliver best-evidence surgical care to all patients. As a result, ERAS provides a uniquely pragmatic model for improving outcomes and reducing disparities in vulnerable surgical populations. The value of ERAS may therefore extend beyond its traditional benefits to the even greater pursuit of health equity.