Combination of Chronic Conditions Determining Clinical Relevance and Resource Use
Addressing Methodological Challenges in Research for Patients with Multiple Chronic Conditions –R21 Grants
Principal Investigator: Koroukian, Siran M.
Institution/Partners: Case Western Reserve University
Project Period: 05/01/14--04/30/15
Grant Number: R21 HS23113-01
Description
Chronic conditions often co-occur and one in five individuals with chronic illness also presents with activity limitations. However, little is known about the specific combinations of conditions—within and across the broad rubrics of chronic conditions (CC), functional limitations (FL), and/or geriatric syndromes (GS)—that have the greatest implications for clinical and resource management. The project aims to identify and rank specific combinations of CC, FL, and GS according to a) frequency; b) health outcomes; c) health services utilization; and d) institutional and non-institutional cost of care. The project examines variations in combinations of these conditions across subgroups of older adults and relative metrics of health services utilization including acute, post-acute, and long-term care.
Specific Aims
- Address a method of more accurately defining and characterizing patients with multiple chronic conditions (MCC).
- Rather than focusing on CCs alone, account for the impact of specific CC(s) in conjunction with presence and severity of FL and/or GS on health outcomes, health services use, and costs in older adults.
- Present a comprehensive and personalized approach when characterizing patients with MCC.
Main Objective
Address a comprehensive method of accurately defining and characterizing patients with multiple chronic conditions.
Chronic Conditions Considered
Focused on burden of chronic disease; chronic conditions not specified.
Study Design, Data Sources & Sample Size
Statistical learning technique using Linked Health and Retirement Study (HRS) and Medicare Claims data for 1992-2001.
Strategies Addressed from the HHS Strategic Framework on Multiple Chronic Conditions
- 4.B. Understand the epidemiology of multiple chronic conditions
- 4.C. Increase clinical health research
