@article{ref1,
title="Identification of hidden health utilization services and costs in adults awaiting tertiary care following mild traumatic brain injury in Toronto, Ontario, Canada",
journal="Concussion",
year="2016",
author="Hunt, Cindy and Zanetti, Katrina and Kirkham, Brian and Michalak, Alicja and Masanic, Cheryl and Vaidyanath, Chantal and Bhalerao, Shree and Cusimano, Michael D. and Baker, Andrew and Ouchterlony, Donna",
volume="1",
number="4",
pages="CNC21-CNC21",
abstract="AIM: The cognitive, emotional, behavioral and physical impairments experienced by adults after mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) can produce substantial disability, with 15-20% requiring referral to tertiary care (TC) for persistent symptoms. <br><br>METHODS: A convenience sample of 201 adult patients referred to TC as a result of mTBI was studied. Self-reported data were collected at first TC visit, on average 10 months postinjury. Patients reported the type and intensity of healthcare provider visit(s) undertaken while awaiting TC. <br><br>RESULTS: On average males reported 37 and females 30 healthcare provider visits, resulting in over $500,000 Canadian dollars spent on potentially excess mTBI care over 1 year. <br><br>DISCUSSION: Based on conservative estimate of 15% of mTBI patients receiving TC, this finding identifies a possible excess in care of $110 million for Ontario. Accurate diagnosis of mTBI and early coordination of follow-up care for those needing TC could increase cost-effectiveness.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="2056-3299",
doi="10.2217/cnc-2016-0009",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.2217/cnc-2016-0009"
}