Multimorbidity in Younger Deprived Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Smith Susan M, Ferede Atakelet, O'Dowd Tom
Primary Institution: Trinity College, Dublin
Hypothesis
Can younger individuals with multimorbidity be identified at the general practice level and what is the impact of multimorbidity on healthcare delivery?
Conclusion
It is feasible to identify younger patients with multimorbidity through their GP records, highlighting the need for clinical interventions.
Supporting Evidence
- 92 patients with multimorbidity were identified.
- The median number of conditions was 4 per patient.
- Patients received an average of 7.5 medications.
- Patients attended a mean of 11.3 GP visits in the past year.
- Barriers to research included difficulties with GP clinical software and disease coding.
Takeaway
This study shows that many younger people have multiple health problems, which makes it harder for doctors to help them.
Methodology
Cross-sectional survey of GP records in two urban practices focusing on patients aged 45-64 with at least three chronic conditions.
Potential Biases
Potential overestimation bias due to incomplete data and variations in disease coding.
Limitations
The study relied on patient records, which may not fully capture the impact of multimorbidity.
Participant Demographics
Patients aged 45-64, with a gender distribution of 47% male and 53% female.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website