Provincial and Regional Differences in Self-reported Health and Health Service Use among Ontario Adults with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

The northern region of the province of Ontario varies greatly from the southern region. Access and availability of healthcare resources also varies. Those persons living within the northern regions with a chronic condition, such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) may face challenges managing their condition within the context of this region. The objectives of the study were: 1) to describe self-reported health and other health-related variables among those living with COPD in northern Ontario and 2) to determine the association between self reported health and health services used by those living with COPD in northern Ontario. Methods: An analysis of the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) 2017-2018 was undertaken to examine the impact of COPD on self-rated health and health service use. Chi square and logistic regression were used to investigate the relationships between self-reported health, health variables, and use of health services. Results: Those living with COPD in the northern regions of the province were more likely to report poor self-rated health, mental health, and less life satisfaction than those living with COPD elsewhere in the province. Differences were noted in the types of health care services accessed and differences noted in their report of unmet healthcare needs. Conclusion: There are notable health care disparities in this region compared to the rest of the province. These may be partially responsible for lower self-reported health of people with COPD living in northern Ontario.