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Medical paediatric admission patterns at the University Hospital of the West Indies: issues for future planning
C Eck1, R B Pierre, I R Hambleton
1Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Child Health and Sickle Cell Unit, The University of the West Indies, Kingston 7, Jamaica.
Insights
This study analyzed 1350 paediatric hospital admissions in 1999, revealing seasonal peaks in respiratory conditions from October to January and significant healthcare costs. Findings aid in optimizing health services and resource allocation.
Area of Science:
- Medical Informatics
- Public Health
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Understanding epidemiological trends in hospital admissions is crucial for effective healthcare planning and resource allocation.
- Morbidity, mortality, and economic impact data inform healthcare strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the epidemiological trends of paediatric hospital admissions.
- To identify patterns in morbidity, mortality, and economic impact.
- To provide data for healthcare planning and resource allocation at the University Hospital of the West Indies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of all paediatric admissions to the University Hospital of the West Indies in 1999.
- Data collection included demographic, admission, discharge, and cost-of-care information.
- Statistical analysis to identify trends and patterns.
Main Results:
- A total of 1350 admissions were recorded (570 female, 715 male).
- Major admission peaks occurred from October to January, primarily due to respiratory conditions.
- High hospital occupancy was observed from November to April, with significant costs per patient.
Conclusions:
- Paediatric admissions exhibit distinct seasonal patterns, particularly for respiratory illnesses.
- Healthcare costs associated with paediatric admissions are substantial.
- The findings support evidence-based resource allocation and health service rationalization.
Abstract:
An understanding of the epidemiological trend in hospital admissions, including morbidity and mortality patterns and the economic impact, is critical for healthcare planning and appropriate resource allocation. Data were collected on all admissions to the paediatric unit of the University Hospital of the West Indies during the period 1999. Each observation included demographic data, admission and discharge data and billed cost of care. There were 1350 admissions (570 female and 715 male, p < 0.001). Admissions "lows" were observed in February, April and July; minor peaks in March and June and the major peaks between October and January coincided with admissions due primarily to respiratory conditions. The evening shift was generally the busiest, with the night shift having the lowest average number of admissions in any one-week period Occupancy was uniformly high between November and April, with minor lows in May and August/September. The total cost for a typical patient was J$9708 per admission and the total daily cost for a typical patient was J$1823 (US$1 = J$39 in 1999). The findings could assist with resource allocation and rationalization of health services.
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