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Financial data shows need for intervention programs to decrease firearm-related injuries
Recently published results indicated the need for funded intervention programs aimed at decreasing firearm-related injuries.
Researchers performed a retrospective review of 3,617 patients who presented with an acute firearm-related injury between 2007 and 2013 at Louisiana State University Interim Public Hospital in New Orleans. Investigators studied 3,617 patient encounters.
Russel R. Russo
Results showed 59% of patients required orthopedic consultation, of which 25% required inpatient orthopedic surgical intervention. Researchers found acute gunshot wounds accounted for 23% of orthopedic trauma consultations, as well as 13% of the orthopedic daily census.
During the study period, $141,995,682 was the total amount billed by the hospital for these encounters and the actual calculated cost was $73,572,892, according to results. However, researchers noted $30,922,953 was collected, giving a 7-year net loss of $42,649,938. – by Casey Tingle
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.