Incidence, prevalence, and medical costs of pressure injuries in Taiwan from 2001 to 2015: Results of a retrospective cohort study

Aims and ObjectivesThis study aims to analyse the trends in the incidence, prevalence and medical costs of pressure injuries (PIs) among genders in Taiwan.BackgroundThe treatment of PIs is complex and costly, often leading to complications and increased mortality. This issue significantly impacts healthcare quality and incurs substantial medical and social costs, warranting attention.MethodsA retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Database to obtain and calculate the incidence, prevalence, and medical costs of PIs in the country between 2001 and 2015 as well as to analyse high-risk groups and the medical care utilisation of patients following the STROBE reporting guidelines.ResultsBetween 2001 and 2015, 15,327 incident case of PIs were diagnosed. During the study period, the prevalence rate of PIs per 100,000 population rose from 26.3 to 189.6, with approximately 11.5%-16.3% of patients undergoing surgical debridement. The PIs prevalence rate increased by 7.2-fold, and hospitalisation costs accounted for 91.7%-96.0% of the total medical costs. Patients with older age, comorbidities, poorer financial status and lower education levels were found to be likely to develop PIs. These predisposing factors differed between males and females. The prevalence of PIs was higher in patients >= 75 years old than in patients from other age groups. Moreover, PI-related medical expenses have been increasing annually.ConclusionsIn Taiwan, the rising incidence of PIs is driving up medical costs. Effective care and prevention of PIs necessitate a comprehensive plan from the entire healthcare system.Relevance to Clinical PracticeThis research fills a gap in the available data on the incidence, prevalence, and medical costs of PIs in Taiwan and Asia.Patient or Public ContributionThe findings can be used to help develop clinical guidelines for preventive education and treatment of PIs.