Delayed Appendicitis Diagnosis Linked to Increased Hospital Costs, reveals JAMA study

The key findings of the study were as follows:

• Patients with delayed diagnosis had 1.23 times increased hospital care costs compared to those without delayed diagnosis.

• Median unadjusted costs for delayed diagnosis were $11,099, significantly higher than $9177 for non-delayed diagnosis.

• Adjusted analysis revealed a 1.23 times higher likelihood of increased hospital costs for delayed diagnosis patients.

• Non-Hispanic Black individuals experienced 1.22 times higher appendicitis hospital care costs compared to non-Hispanic White patients.

• Older age groups and patients on Medicare disability or Medicaid had significantly greater costs.

The study underscores the importance of timely diagnosis in appendicitis management and its impact on healthcare costs. It highlights disparities in care quality and reimbursement policies, particularly affecting minority populations. Understanding the mechanisms behind delayed diagnosis among minority patients is crucial for addressing healthcare disparities effectively.

Delayed appendicitis diagnosis significantly increases hospital care costs, with implications for healthcare reimbursement policies and disparities in patient care. Addressing disparities in diagnosis rates and implementing equitable quality metrics are essential steps toward improving healthcare outcomes for all populations.

Reference:

Kulasekere, D, Royan, R, Shan Y. Appendicitis Hospitalization Care Costs Among Patients With Delayed Diagnosis of Appendicitis. JAMA Network Open. 2024;7(4):e246721. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.6721.