Predictors of Rehabilitation Costs After Stroke in Younger Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Björkdahl Ann, Sunnerhagen Katharina Stibrant
Primary Institution: Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology-Rehabilitation Medicine, Göteborg University, Sweden
Hypothesis
Ability in activities of daily life and aphasia would influence costs.
Conclusion
Costs are high in this group of young stroke patients compared to other studies, partly due to the length of stay and partly to loss of productivity.
Supporting Evidence
- Direct costs were influenced by process skill and presence of aphasia.
- The total direct mean cost was 80,020 € and the indirect cost was 35,129 €.
- Patients with severe aphasia had significantly higher costs compared to those without.
Takeaway
Young people who have a stroke spend a lot of money on recovery, especially if they have trouble speaking or planning tasks.
Methodology
Fifty-eight patients were followed for 1 year after stroke discharge, with costs calculated based on health care services used.
Potential Biases
The study may have selection bias as it only includes patients who agreed to participate.
Limitations
The sample size is relatively small, which may limit generalizability.
Participant Demographics
Median age of participants was 53, with 76% men and 24% women; 80% had co-morbidities.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.007 for severe aphasia, 0.042 for process skill
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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