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Abstract
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Background
Research indicates that self-care affects lifestyle and health behaviors; however, little is known about whether or not self-care affects medical utilization.
Objectives
Exploring the effects on self-care behaviors to medical utilizations by elderly with chronic conditions.
Method
Data from the Taiwanese National Survey of Health and Living Status of Older Adults and the National Health Insurance claim databases in 2007 were used. Indicators of self-care were disease management behavior and self-care confidence of the elderly. We considered hospital admissions, emergency room services, and avoidable hospitalizations as representing utilization of medical services.
Results
In total, 2531 cases were recruited. After controlling for demographic factors and health status, a logistic regression showed that higher self-care confidence and beginning an exercise program decreased avoidable hospitalizations. Furthermore, beginning an exercise program decreased hospital admissions and also decreased utilization of emergency services.
Discussion
Self-care behavior and confidence decreased avoidable hospitalization, hospital admission and emergency services. More research is needed to identify the interaction between self-care literacy, self-care behavior and health services that may clarify the effective means and provide appropriate intervention programs.
Language: en |