2023-09-25 15:57:53
Nearly 40% of pediatric patients suffering from back problems in the country are not operated on within the prescribed six-month time frame. These delays could increase the risk of complications and would cost the health system approximately $45 million, according to a study by Children’s Health Canada and the Conference Board of Canada.
The data is included in a twenty-page report published Monday by the two organizations. Both groups looked at scoliosis operations.
Surgery for idiopathic scoliosis — the form of curvature most common in adolescence — is one of the most common surgical procedures among young people. Specialists recommend carrying out operations for scoliosis within six months after the decision to treat the patient.
According to the report, 38% of scoliosis operations take place on time. In Ontario, the rate drops to 29%. Ontario has 40 pediatric surgeons per 100,000 children, a rate slightly higher than the federal average.
Consequences of delays
Delays in operations can have adverse effects on children’s health: the curvature can worsen and costs for the patient and their family can increase, the report reads.
Some 2,778 Canadian adolescents suffering from idiopathic scoliosis have been waiting more than six months for an operation. Researchers estimate the costs at $44.6 million, explaining that these delays can cause, for every 100 children:
- More than 15 additional, more complex procedures
- 200 additional days of hospitalization
- More chances of reinfection or complications
The costs of lost productivity are around 1.4 million to the economy since parents must take care of their children.
Recommendations
The research highlights the need to invest in the pediatric care continuum to ensure children and youth in Canada receive the care they deserve
said the president of Children’s Health Canada, Emily Gruenwoldt.
The two organizations that wrote the report recommend that governments invest in recruiting workers with experience in pediatric care, increase the number of time slots for operations and prioritize operations that have been postponed due to the pandemic.
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