Cross-Sectional Study of Attendance at a Primary Care Consultation in a Social Security Health System

López Gómez, Helen Joan ; García-Foncillas López, Rafael (Universidad de Zaragoza)

Resumen: Health systems have suffered changes trying to adapt to the evolution of societies; with European models being the most prestigious given that they have a global vision in the provision of their health services to users. But these models are not exempt from a percentage of the population misusing the services, becoming hyper-frequent users and thereby increasing health spending. Our study seeks to establish a correlation between hyper-frequent use and health expenditure. Methodology: Retrospective, observational, descriptive study developed in the population served in 2,023 in a quota of an urban health center in Zaragoza, Spain. Results: There is high percentage of hyper frequency both in primary care (PC) (22.59%) and in emergency care (HC) (49.71%) not related to age or associated chronic pathological decompensations. In addition, for the same clinical act the demand for tests, referrals, etc. is high, as is a percentage of patients who do not attend their appointment, increasing the waiting lists. Conclusions: Overcrowding is a problem for all health systems, both from an economic and healthcare point of view, suturing agendas and thereby reducing efficiency and effectiveness in the provision of health services. Structural changes are needed, starting with health education from the first door of entry to services to stop these practices.

Idioma: Inglés

DOI: 10.29011/2688-7460.100276

Año: 2025

Publicado en: Family medicine and primary care. Open access 9, 01 (2025), 276 [5 pp.]
ISSN: 2688-7460

Tipo y forma: Article (Published version)

Área (Departamento): Área Medic.Prevent.Salud Públ. (Dpto. Microb.Ped.Radio.Sal.Pú.)