Affiliation:
1. Global Clinic Helsinki
2. University of Vaasa, Department of Social and Health Management, 65200 Vaasa, Finland
3. Pediatric Research Center, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, 00029 Helsinki, Finland
Abstract
Abstract
Background
As few data based on actual demand for healthcare services in vulnerable migrant populations exist, we studied service use and healthcare costs in a cohort of migrants in an irregular situation.
Methods
In this single-centre retrospective register study, we examined the reasons for encounter, diagnoses, service use and costs of healthcare among patients at a voluntary clinic for migrants in an irregular situation in Helsinki, Finland. ICPC-2 classification and national unit costs for primary healthcare were used for the cost estimation.
Results
A total of 546 patient visits accounted for 620 ICPC-2 coded reasons for encounter, diagnoses and process codes. The most common health problems were teeth/gum disease (10%), acute upper respiratory infection (5%) and oesophageal disease (3%). Visits seldom led to complementary investigations (2%), follow-up visits (5%) or referrals (11%). The total cost of treatment, excluding dental health costs, was 71 euros per visit.
Conclusions
Migrants in an irregular situation present with a variety of health concerns, the majority of which can be treated in a basic primary healthcare facility at a relatively low cost. This encourages research to evaluate the health and cost effects of extending public healthcare for migrants in an irregular situation beyond emergency care.
Publisher
Oxford University Press (OUP)
Subject
Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health,General Medicine
Cited by
1 articles.
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