[A retrospective evaluation of the behaviour of groups under out-patient care at a health center].
OBJECTIVE
To study and analyse the Out-Patient Care Groups (OCGs), and evaluate how they affect use of health resources.


METHODS
An observational, retrospective study.


METHODS
Ciudad Jardín Health Centre, Málaga.


METHODS
2999 patients with a clinical history opened before 31.12.95, chosen from 5 of the 17 medical lists at the Health Centre, were included.


RESULTS
The statistical analysis was performed with the SPSS software package of the Calculation Centre at Málaga University. A descriptive test produced the following results: 33% of the patients were classified in OCG 41 (combination of 2 or 3 out-patient diagnosis groups in people over 34); 19% belonged to groups of stable or unstable chronic illnesses (OCGs 8, 9 and 10); and 9% had acute children's diseases. Then multiple regression constructed a model with the OCGs as independent variable and annual visits, further tests performed and referral to specialists as dependent variables. In this model the OCGs were able to explain 20.3% of resource consumption.


CONCLUSIONS
In the retrospective study and with a limited sample of 2999 patients, the OCGs are able to explain 20.3% of resource consumption. However, it does seem a valid model for discriminating between normal and over-using patients.
Hormigo Pozo
A
A
Centro de Salud Ciudad Jardín, Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública de Granada.
García Ruiz
A J
AJ
Martos Crespo
F
F
García Ruiz
M C
MC
Montesinos Gálvez
A C
AC
Prados Torres
A
A
de la Cuesta
S
S
D015438:Health Behavior; D006296:Health Services / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans; D010045:Outpatients / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013030:Spain