Prevalence and impact of chronic childhood conditions in Auckland, New Zealand

Abstract

Objective: To establish the prevalence of specific chronic conditions of childhood in the Auckland area and to quantify resource use by these children.

Methodology: Estimates were made from available registry data and published data sources of the population of children with selected chronic conditions resident in the Auckland Area Health Board area. Resource use data were extracted for admissions to Auckland public hospitals and from providers of community based technology services.

Results: The largest community prevalence groups are those with asthma, intellectual handicap, congenital heart disease and epilepsy. Children aged 0-14 with chronic conditions accounted for at least 14,340 hospital days stay in Auckland in 1992 at an estimated minimum cost of $7.9 million. Over 200 children are dependent on technological aids at home.

Conclusions: There are sparse data on the numbers and needs of children with chronic conditions in the population. A non-categorical approach which crosses disease entities may be the best method of meeting common needs.