Cost Analysis of Two Methods for Improving the Quality of Care (Qoc) Scores in Paediatric Hospital Wards During Winter Periods

• DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2015.09.1552
• Publication Date: 2015-10-20T20:46:20Z
• Authors: B Standaert; X Li; D Strens; N Schecroun; M Raes
• Keywords: Unit cost

Before 2006 bed occupancy rates during winter periods were above the good management threshold (85%) in Jessa Hospital paediatric ward (Hasselt, Belgium), with peaks 100%. This causes pressure on and people expressed bad QoC scores. We evaluated two methods to improve scores their investment costs. Option A is extending number of beds until unit operates under 85% whole season. B introducing rotavirus vaccination infants high coverage catchment area. hospital 36 was selected as pilot design. Bed rates/day over a period 6 years (2004-2009) collected, including pre- post-introduction vaccine 2006. Estimated birth cohort 7,000/year For total cost per year calculated referencing observed pre-vaccination period. vaccinating implications savings applying post-vaccination Total for each option compared. A: 4 extra remain threshold, costs about €436,000/year may still sometimes be exceeded. B: program area €420,000/year, leading 41% reduction bed-days gastro-enteritis winter, equivalent €82,000/year offsets. therefore €338,000/year an overall 82% rate/day, being below throughout winters. cheaper than beds. Moreover it maintains rate safety period, thus guarantees better pediatric ward.