Researchers at Chongqing Medical University have developed innovative diagnosis-related group (DRG) classifications aimed at efficiently managing hospitalization costs for patients suffering from uterine leiomyoma (UL), as detailed in their recent study.
Uterine leiomyoma is the most prevalent benign tumor among women, frequently affecting those between the ages of 30 to 50. While often asymptomatic, when symptoms do arise, they can severely impact quality of life and impose significant economic burdens on patients and the healthcare system. To address these challenges, the study explores the use of DRGs, which categorize patients based on clinical similarities as well as resource utilization, to create more effective cost management strategies.
This research, funded by the Chongqing Municipal Science and Technology Bureau, analyzed data from 3,087 UL patients hospitalized between 2017 and 2021. The average hospitalization cost for these patients was found to be 22,436.11 yuan, with treatment costs being the highest contributor at 29.46%. The average length of stay (LOS) was 6.66 days, indicating the potential for optimization.
Utilizing the exhaustive chi-squared automatic interaction detection (E-CHAID) algorithm, the team constructed DRG groups and derived payment standards for each category. This method enabled them to significantly identify key factors influencing hospitalization costs, including surgery type, LOS, and the presence of complications, with surgery type being the predominant influencing factor.
"The established hospitalization cost scheme for patients with UL is reasonable, as seen through our analysis," noted the authors, underscoring the effectiveness of DRG classifications. By implementing these classifications, the aim is not only to streamline service delivery within the healthcare system but also to reduce the out-of-pocket expenses faced by patients.
The research highlights the importance of reducing LOS as a strategy to manage costs. By optimizing treatment methods and expediting discharge, hospitals can lessen both patient expenses and the overall strain on healthcare resources.
"Reducing LOS is an effective way of controlling hospitalization costs, which will not only improve patient satisfaction but also increase hospital efficiency, was another key takeaway from the findings.
The final analysis concluded with the establishment of ten distinct DRG groups. Each group demonstrated significant differences in cost distribution, as confirmed by statistical testing. The findings revealed considerable heterogeneity among the cost groups, validating the efficacy of the E-CHAID approach for patient classification.
This research provides valuable insights and sets the groundwork for refining payment structures based on DRGs, thereby equipping healthcare facilities with the knowledge to manage costs more effectively. It emphasizes the necessity for hospitals to adapt to these insights to improve patient care and financial outcomes.
Overall, the study lays out a framework not only for managing hospitalization costs for UL patients but also for improving the quality and efficiency of medical services, which is increasingly pertinent as healthcare systems globally shift toward value-based care models.