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Published on: February 23, 2024
The true cost of burn
1Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, NSW Severe Burn Injury Service, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, New South Wales, Australia. chrisahn@live.com.au
Summary
The average cost of acute burns care in Australia is AU$71,056 per adult patient. Total body surface area (%TBSA) injured is the main cost driver, with hospital stay and operative expenses being significant factors.
Area of Science:
- Medical Economics
- Trauma Surgery
- Public Health
Background:
- Burns injuries incur substantial healthcare costs globally.
- Accurate cost calculation is essential for resource allocation and prevention strategies.
- Previous estimates of acute burns care costs in Australia are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To accurately calculate the cost of acute burns care in an Australian context.
- To identify key cost determinants and trends associated with burns severity.
- To inform resource allocation towards effective prevention and management strategies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 20 adult burn patients.
- Itemized cost analysis based on utilized resources and services.
- Regression analysis to establish a cost vs. %TBSA relationship.
- Cost breakdown to identify significant expenditure areas.
Main Results:
- Average cost per adult burns patient: AU$71,056 (US$73,532).
- Total cost for 20 patients: AU$2,449,112 (US$2,534,464).
- %TBSA injured is the primary determinant of cost.
- Hospital length of stay, operative costs, dressings, and staffing are major cost components.
Conclusions:
- Acute burns care in Australia is a significant financial burden.
- Injury severity (%TBSA) directly correlates with increased healthcare costs.
- Prevention and education programs represent minimal expenditure but offer potential for cost reduction through injury severity mitigation.
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Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History:
Assessment:
1. Clinical Evaluation:
History: