Indirect impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the incidence of non-COVID-19 infectious diseases: a region-wide, patient-based database study in Japan.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced people to change many behaviours, including physical distancing, hygiene measures and lifestyles. This study aimed to evaluate the indirect impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the incidence of non-COVID-19 infections and medical care costs/visits using health insurance claims.

Study design

This was an observational study using patient-based administrative claims covering approximately 800,000 insured persons and their dependents in the Mie Prefecture in Japan.

Methods

This study identified non-COVID-19 infectious disease incidences, number of outpatient visits and healthcare costs between 2017 and 2021. Each year was divided into quarters. The adjusted incidence rate ratios (IRRs) during the pandemic (January 2020 to Septembe

SUBMITTER: Kanda N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9595362 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature