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  4. Forecasting Financial Resources for Future Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury Care Using Simulation Modeling

Forecasting Financial Resources for Future Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury Care Using Simulation Modeling

JOURNAL OF NEUROTRAUMA, 2017 · DOI: 10.1089/neu.2016.4936 · Published: October 15, 2017

Spinal Cord InjuryHealthcareResearch Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

The study forecasts healthcare costs and long-term outcomes for traumatic spinal cord injury (tSCI) in Canada between 2012 and 2032, using simulation modeling. The model uses data from Canadian acute and rehabilitation facilities, along with population and tSCI incidence predictions. The projections indicate a rise in tSCI incidence among older adults, leading to increased healthcare costs.

Study Duration
2012-2032 (forecast)
Participants
Data from acute and rehabilitation care facilities across Canada
Evidence Level
Not specified

Key Findings

  • 1
    The projected median age of persons with tSCI in 2032 is 57, with those 61 and older accounting for 46% of injuries.
  • 2
    Admissions to acute and rehabilitation facilities are expected to increase by 31% and 25%, respectively, by 2032.
  • 3
    Care costs are projected to increase by 54%, and rest-of-life costs by 37%, resulting in an additional CAD $16.4 million in expenses.

Research Summary

This study uses simulation modeling to forecast healthcare financial resources for traumatic spinal cord injury (tSCI) care in Canada between 2012 and 2032. The model projects an increase in tSCI incidence among older adults, leading to a significant rise in acute and rehabilitation admissions and associated costs. The findings emphasize the need for proactive planning and resource allocation to address the evolving healthcare demands of an aging population with tSCI.

Practical Implications

Resource Planning

Decision makers need accurate projections for increased demand on resources to plan healthcare delivery after tSCI.

Prevention Strategies

Targeted prevention strategies are needed to reduce tSCI incidence, particularly in the older population.

Specialized Care

More geriatricians trained in SCI and specialized facilities will be required to manage complex conditions in older patients.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    Preventative initiatives were not considered in tSCI incidence prediction.
  • 2
    Potential inaccuracies in hospital discharge records and RHSCIR data.
  • 3
    Assumptions about constant LOS and medical practices between 2012 and 2032.

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