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Sociodemographic factors that influence COVID-19 healthcare utilization and costs in Alberta, Canada: a
Kathy Liu1, Elissa Rennert-May1,2,3,4,5, Zuying Zhang1
1Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
Introduction:
Understanding how sociodemographic factors influence healthcare utilization (HCU) and costs is important for equalizing care for underserved patients. This study examines how age, sex, and socioeconomic deprivation influence HCU and healthcare costs during COVID-19.
Method:
We completed a population-based study of adult patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis in Alberta, Canada between March 1, 2020 and December 15, 2021. Patients were stratified using standardized matrices for economic and social deprivation. Each group's healthcare utilization (both hospital- and community-based) were compared.
Results:
Older age and male gender are associated with significantly higher total healthcare costs. Above 50 years, number of ED visits decreased significantly (aRR = 0.78, p < 0.01). Social and material deprivation was associated with higher total costs and costs for ED and inpatient visits and significantly greater risk of requiring ED visits. Material deprivation was associated with shorter duration until first hospitalization. Social deprivation exerted greater effect on outpatient resources. Material deprivation had a greater effect on inpatient resources consumption.
Discussion:
Pandemics differentially affect patients from different social and economic backgrounds. Future studies should study the health implications associated with these differential sociodemographic factors.
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