Lay summary
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ). Currently, it affects more than one in 23 adults, and almost a third of all deaths are attributed CVD in NZ every year. Importantly, CVD is also associated with significant disparity, disproportionately affecting Māori, who also tend to present at an earlier age with more advanced disease. Many Māori also live in rural areas, often with significant social deprivation. Many have reduced healthcare access and therefore a higher rate of CVD-related hospitalisations. This study proposes to explore the association of patient level rural/urban classifications with CVD data for a cohort of primary care patients enrolled in practices across the Waikato, Tairawhiti, Bay of Plenty and Taranaki regions. We will also link to geocoded health services data (e.g. hospital locations) to better understand where rural and urban patients are accessing healthcare services.