The Impact of Transport Costs on Dialysis Patients in Switzerland
Author Information
Author(s): Gröble Sabrina, Bilger Jana, Britt Chantal, Kaspar Heidi, Herzig Sabine, Schmitt Kai-Uwe
Primary Institution: Bern University of Applied Sciences
Hypothesis
What are the transport costs for dialysis patients in Switzerland and how do they affect their lives?
Conclusion
Many dialysis patients in Switzerland face significant transport costs that are often not adequately covered by financial support, leading to financial strain and social limitations.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients travel a median distance of 7.5 km to their dialysis centres.
- Median annual transport costs are CHF 2925, with a mean of CHF 5041.
- Approximately 70.8% of respondents reported not receiving any financial support for travel costs.
- Half of the patients perceive transport costs as a burden or limitation.
Takeaway
This study shows that patients who need dialysis often spend a lot of money on getting to their treatment, which can make life harder for them and their families.
Methodology
The study used a mixed methods design, including qualitative interviews with patients and a quantitative online survey.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias as those with a strong interest in the topic may have been more likely to respond.
Limitations
The study may not fully represent the Swiss dialysis population due to selection bias and the online-only survey format.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 371 dialysis patients, predominantly retired, with a mean age of 70.1 years, and a gender distribution of 67.8% male and 32.2% female.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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