Medical Service Charges of Childhood Asthmatic Patients Admitted at Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital

Abstract

Introduction: Asthma is a chronic disease often found in children which lead to hospital admissions.These affect physical and mental health as well as additional costs. This study aimed to determine the medicalservice charge of childhood asthmatic patients admitted in Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai hospital during 2007 to 2010. Method: The data were retrospectively collected in patients with ICD-10 diagnosis codes of J45.0, J45.1, J45.8,and J46. The data were included general information and medical service charges such as medication, laboratory,X-ray, room and food, medical services, and supplies. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Results:There were 53 admitted patients during a 4-year period with average age of 6.0±3.4 years. The ratio of male tofemale was 2:1. More than half had 1-3 days of hospitalization. The average medical service charges per patientbetween 2007-2010 were 9,981, 9,362, 5,126, 7,483 baht respectively with 8,278 baht average medical servicecharges per patient during 4 years. The average medical service charges per day between 2007-2010 were 3,237,2,310, 2,563, 2,427 baht respectively with 2,675 baht average medical service charges per day during 4 years.Of total expenses, considering the components of charges, 40.5% were service charges, 19.9% were medication,and 6.5% were room and food. Conclusion: The average medical service charges per patient and per day ofadmitted patients is substantial and equal to 8,278 and 2,675 baht. Hospital should provide knowledge related to thedisease, medication use, and behavior counseling to childhood patients or their parents. This will prevent asthmaexacerbation leading to fewer hospitalizations and lower patient care costs.