Eating Disorder Length of Stay and Readmission Rate Differences Depending on Payor Source

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Health
• Clinical Research
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Eating disorders are a significant cause of hospitalization in children and adolescents.
• Understanding socioeconomic factors influencing treatment is crucial for pediatric care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the pediatric population hospitalized for eating disorders.
• To investigate socioeconomic factors affecting length of stay (LOS) and readmission rates.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective multicenter cohort study of patients aged 9-21 years (2016-2023).
• Utilized the Pediatric Health Information System database and ICD-10 codes for eating disorders.
• Analyzed demographic, clinical characteristics, LOS, and readmission rates based on payor source.

Main Results:

• Included 6806 encounters with a median LOS of 7 days and a 14.3% 30-day readmission rate.
• No significant differences in LOS or readmission rates were found concerning primary payor source.
• Higher median household income was significantly correlated with longer LOS, with notable variation between hospital sites.

Conclusions:

• Payor source did not impact LOS or readmission rates for pediatric eating disorder hospitalizations.
• Systemic factors influencing LOS and readmission rates require further investigation.
• Community-level interventions are needed to guide resource allocation for healthcare professionals and leaders.