Abstract

UGALDE V, PATRICIA et al. Opportunity Cost for Adolescents at Family Medicine Clinics. Rev. chil. pediatr. [online]. 2010, vol.81, n.5, pp. 418-424. ISSN 0370-4106.  doi: 10.4067/S0370-41062010000500005.

Objective: To determine the opportunity cost for adolescents requiring care at Family Medicine Clinics. Material and Methods: Study of cost performed on 624 patients, 10-19 years of age, Family Medicine Clinics, Pharmacy and Laboratory. A conglomerate sample technique was used (Medical Unit), and proportional sampling internally. Several sociodemographic variables were evaluated, including transfer, waiting time and care. Statistical evaluation included averages, percentages, and confidence intervals of 95%. Results: The cost-opportunity for Family Medicine and Pharmacy in the situations evaluated was $10.22 for the teenager, $71.43 for the first family member, and $14.28 for the second person accompanying the child. When they attend all three services, the cost is $12.26, $82.71 and $16.54 respectively. A weighted average cost of opportunity IFOR all three services is $93.18. Conclusions: The largest cost of opportunity for adolescents occurs when waiting for care in Family Medicine. It is suggested that strategies be implemented to decrese waiting times in the various services.

Keywords : Family Medicine Clinics; adolescent; cost-opportunity.