Cross-Border Care in Europe: Volume and Diagnoses
Author Information
Author(s): Vallejo P, Suñol R, Van Beek B, Lombarts M J M H, Bruneau C, Vlček F
Primary Institution: Avedis Donabedian Institute, Autonomous University of Barcelona
Hypothesis
What is the volume and main diagnoses of cross-border care in eight European countries?
Conclusion
Cross-border patients are primarily hospitalized for acute conditions, with ischaemic heart disease and fractures being the most common diagnoses.
Supporting Evidence
- Less than 1% of total hospital admissions were cross-border patients.
- Ischaemic heart disease and fractures were the most common reasons for hospitalization.
- Cross-border patients had more acute conditions compared to the general population.
Takeaway
This study looked at how many patients go to other countries in Europe for hospital care and what illnesses they have. It found that not many people do this, and when they do, it's often for serious health problems.
Methodology
The study combined findings from three independent studies that collected self-reported data on hospital admissions and diagnoses from over 200 hospitals across eight European countries.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the small sample size and self-reported data.
Limitations
Data validity depended on hospital information systems, which may have limitations in identifying foreign patients and coding accuracy.
Participant Demographics
Hospitals from Belgium, Czech Republic, France, Netherlands, Poland, Spain, and the UK participated.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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