Overutilization of regional burn centers for pediatric patientsa healthcare system problem that should be corrected

Gary A. Vercruysse, Walter L. Ingram, David V. Feliciano

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

23 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Minor burns represent.96% to 1.5% of emergency department visits, yet burn center referral is common. Analysis of the Grady Memorial Hospital Burn Center examined the feasibility and savings if pediatric burns were managed locally with as-needed consultation. Methods: Prospective data on 219 consecutive admissions to Grady Memorial Hospital Burn Center between December 2008 and September 2010 were reviewed. National and international cohorts were compared. Results: Sixty-six percent of patients were male, the mean age was 6.1 years, and 92% were insured. The most common mechanism of burning was liquid scalding (40%). Seventy percent had burns over <10% of the total body surface area, and 73% of all pediatric admissions healed without surgery. Thirty-six percent were discharged within 24 hours of admission. Forty-five percent of patients transferred from other facilities were discharged within 24 hours. Fifteen percent were transported by helicopter; of those, 37% were discharged within 24 hours. Helicopter transport cost $12,500 and averaged 45 miles. Conclusions: Pediatric burns require assessment, debridement, and dressing changes. Grafting is rarely necessary. Patients are transferred because of a lack of training, and patients suffer economic burden and treatment delay. Savings could be realized were patients treated locally with select burn center referral.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)802-809
Number of pages8
JournalAmerican journal of surgery
Volume202
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2011
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Burn
  • Economics
  • Education
  • Pediatric
  • Savings
  • Treatment

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery

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