Arrhythmias & electrophysiology
Diversity, equity, and inclusion in arrhythmia care: a European Heart Rhythm Association survey
Authors' conclusion
Clinicians perceive disparities in arrhythmia care across multiple patient and social factors. Whilst age and vulnerability were most frequently perceived to influence care, sex and ethnicity were also recognized by a substantial proportion of respondents. Perceptions varied according to respondent characteristics, with female clinicians more likely to report disparities amongst female patients.
Study context
- Population
- Professionals in arrhythmia care surveyed via European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA), November 2025–January 2026
- Participants
- 212 professionals35 countries
- Outcome
- Clinician-reported perceptions of inequity across diagnosis, pharmacological management, procedural referral and follow-up
Methodological detailssurvey, 30-question survey, 35 countries
- Survey
- 30-question survey
- 35 countries
Main finding
As reported in the abstract
- Cognitive impairment
- 72.5%
- Age >80 years
- 63.8%
- Mental health disease
- 61.3%
- Female sex
- 24.1%
- Minority ethnic background
- 24.1%
Observational data: associations, not effects.
Further findings
Age >80 years as determinant of disparities
- Referral for arrhythmia evaluation
- 65.8%
- Catheter ablation
- 77.9%
- Outcomes after ablation
- 68.1%
Disparities in female patients reported by female vs male respondents
- Delayed referral (female vs male respondents)
- 41.8% vs 19.8%
- Late or incorrect diagnosis
- 49.4 vs. 15.8%
- Delayed referral for catheter ablation
- 36.5 vs. 10.3%
- Delayed referral for device implantation
- 23.0 vs. 7.0%
Respondent characteristics and guidelines
- Consultant electrophysiologists
- 67.5%
- Female respondents
- 39.6%
- No prior training in equity or inclusive care
- 68.4%
- Guidelines adequately address DEI
- 33.3%
Original publication
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