Articles Vol. 66 No. CĐ4-NCKH 15/04/2025

35. PRIMARY CARE AND HEALTH INSURANCE REFERRAL POLICY 2021: A STUDY AT NGUYEN TRAI HOSPITAL, HO CHI MINH CITY

Son Huynh Trung1, Bang Pham Duong Dac2, Vu Phan Thanh3, Anh Nguyen Thi Kim3, Van Ly Vu3, Hue Nguyen Thi Linh3, Vinh Nguyen Nhu1, An Pham Le1
1 University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Hồ Chí Minh city
2 Hong Bang International University
3 Nguyen Trai Hospital
Corresponding author: dacbang625@gmail.com
DOI: 10.52163/yhc.v66iCD4.2354
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Abstract

Objective: To assess referral patterns at Nguyen Trai Hospital, Ho Chi Minh city (2020-2021), focusing on the impact of COVID-19 and health insurance policy changes.

Methods: A cross-sectional study analyzed 8642 referral records, comparing referral rates by ICD-10 groups between 2020 and 2021.

Results: The referral rate decreased significantly from 1.25% in 2020 to 0.65% in 2021 (p < 0.001). Infectious disease referrals doubled (7.59% to 16.69%). The group of chronic diseases showed a decreasing trend or had no statistically significant difference.

Conclusion: COVID-19 and health insurance policy changes led to significant shifts in referral patterns. Strengthening primary care, implementing family medicine, and enhancing referral systems are recommended.

Keywords
Primary care referral Nguyen Trai Hospital health insurance COVID-19
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