Medical Needs of Very-Low-Birth-Weight Preterm Infants Post-Discharge: A Population-Based Study in Taiwan

Introduction: The aim of this study was to explore the outcomes, home use of medical assistive devices, and interdisciplinary medical needs of very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants at a corrected age of 2 years.

Analyses were performed using perinatal, neonatal, and 2-year follow-up data from VLBW infants registered in the Taiwan Premature Infant Follow-up Network (TPFN) between 2011 and 2017. Basic information, survival, and disease conditions during hospitalization were recorded. Medical needs at discharge, outcomes at a corrected age of 2 years, active involvement in outpatient healthcare services, and referrals were investigated.

From 2011 to 2017, a total of 9,243 VLBW preterm neonates were enrolled in the TPFN. Of these neonates, 140 had severe congenital anomalies, 8,044 survived to discharge, and 6,150 returned for follow-up evaluation. At discharge, 10.2% of infants received home oxygen therapy (HOT), and 6.5% used home monitoring devices. Among the infants diagnosed with chronic lung disease, 26.6% received HOT. At a corrected age of 2 years, the most common interventions and recommended referrals were rehabilitative treatments (34.5%), followed by early intervention system services (16.5%), ophthalmology/otolaryngology management (4.4%), neurological follow-up (4.1%), and mental health assessment and treatment (2.5%).

After hospital discharge, VLBW preterm infants exhibit substantial healthcare needs, with significant demands of HOT, rehabilitation, and early intervention services by a corrected age of 2 years. These findings highlight the importance of coordinated outpatient care and long-term follow-up to address the developmental and medical challenges faced by this vulnerable population.