[Tuberculosis-related hospitalization in Spain: a cost analysis].
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the number and cost of hospitalizations due to tuberculosis occurring in the Spanish National Health System (NHS) during 1999 to 2006.


METHODS
The specific diagnosis-related groups (DRG) for tuberculosis (DRGs 705, 709, 711 and 798-802) were analyzed.


RESULTS
We observed a striking decrease in hospitalizations (-25%), concomitant tuberculosis-HIV infection (-8.7%), and tuberculosis-related deaths (-0.5%, NS). In addition, there was a drop in the absolute number of hospital admissions and overall cost (from 31.3 to 30.8 and from 40.6 to 40.1 million euro), and a significant decrease in the relative hospitalizations and cost with respect to the overall number and hospital budget (from 0.21% to 0.10% and from 0.15% to 0.07%).


CONCLUSIONS
There is a marked decrease in tuberculosis-related hospitalizations and mortality, but the disease remains a considerable health burden.
Montes-Santiago
Julio
J
Servicio de Medicina Interna, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario, Vigo, España. julio.montes.santiago@sergas.es
Fernández
Catalina
C
Rey
Gloria
G
Mediero
Ana
A
D003365:Costs and Cost Analysis; D006760:Hospitalization / Q000191:economics* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans; D013030:Spain; D014397:Tuberculosis, Pulmonary / Q000191:economics* / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000628:therapy