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Triage services: a profile of high utilization
M Berg-Weger1, J Gockel, D M Rubio
1Saint Louis University School of Social Service, MO 63103, USA. bergwm@sluvca.slu.edu
Social Work in Health Care
|May 14, 1998
Summary
High utilization of outpatient services among veterans is linked to their perceived health, medication count, and social needs. Understanding these factors can improve healthcare delivery for veterans.
Area of Science:
- Health Services Research
- Veterans Health Administration
- Ambulatory Care
Background:
- Inappropriate outpatient service utilization presents challenges to healthcare delivery.
- Understanding veteran healthcare utilization patterns is crucial for efficient resource allocation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the utilization patterns of ambulatory care triage clinic services among veterans.
- To identify factors associated with high utilization of these services.
Main Methods:
- Study involved 189 veterans at an urban Veterans Administration Medical Center (VAMC).
- Analysis focused on veterans with at least two unscheduled visits in six months.
Main Results:
- Patient perception of health status was related to high service utilization.
- The number of prescription medications was a significant factor.
- Identified social needs also correlated with increased utilization.
Conclusions:
- Veterans' perceived health, medication regimen, and social needs influence outpatient service use.
- Findings have implications for social work practice and program development within VAMCs.
- Further research is needed to optimize healthcare delivery for veterans.