Original Research
Sunday, October 13, 2024
12:45 PM–02:15 PM
Abstract
Introduction: Asthma often leads to Emergency Department (ED) visits. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly strained the healthcare system, yet few studies have explored the ED utilization for asthma during this period.
Research Question or Hypothesis: Compared to non-asthmatic patients, do asthmatic patients have an increased number of ED visits during COVID-19?
Study Design: Cross-sectional study.
Methods: This cross-sectional study used data from the 2020 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, including individuals aged = 18 years. Frequency of ED visits was compared between individuals with and without asthma, using multivariable logistic regression to identify risk factors.
Results: Weighted analysis revealed that asthmatics were more likely to be female (60.49% vs. 51.83%, P<0.001) and younger (mean age 49.20 ± 17.86 vs. 51.17 ± 18.42 years, P<0.001) than non-asthmatics. Racial and ethnic disparities were notable, with higher percentages of non-Hispanic Blacks (14.07% vs. 9.92%) and Hispanics (12.76% vs. 15.19%) among asthmatics (P<0.001). Asthmatics were more likely to fall into lower income categories and had a higher percentage of ED visits (19.35% vs. 11.45%, P<0.001). Comorbidities like angina, emphysema, arthritis, congestive heart disease, and hypertension were significantly higher among ED users (P<0.001). The regression analysis showed females were more likely to visit the ED (adjusted Prevalence Ratio [aPR] 1.15, 95% CI: 1.02-1.30, P=0.02). Individuals with asthma had greater likelihood of ED visits (aPR 1.65, 95% CI: 1.42-1.93, P<0.001). Individuals in the 45-64 age group had more ED visits (aPR 1.71, 95% CI: 1.91-2.45, P=0.004). Additionally, individuals with Medicare (aPR 2.51, 95% CI: 1.97-3.20, P <0.001) and Medicaid coverage (aPR 1.78, 95% CI: 1.40-2.25, P<0.001) had higher likelihood of ED visits.
Conclusion:
Asthma, age group 45-64, family income, as well as having Medicare and Medicaid coverage, increased the likelihood of ED visits. Socioeconomic and sociodemographic factors remain important in healthcare planning and policy development to reduce ED visits.
Presenting Author
Mina Yakoub B.Pharm., M.S.University of Kentucky
Authors
Matthew Duprey PharmD., Ph.D., BCCCP
University of Kentucky
Jayani Jayawardhana B.A., M.A., Ph.D.
University of Kentucky