Continuity of primary care reduces the number of hospitalizations in people with chronic kidney disease

People with chronic kidney disease (CKD) need three to eight times higher levels of emergency care than the general population for comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. It is unclear how regular access to primary care affects the subsequent use of emergency care.

In a study published in Annals of family medicineResearchers from the University of Calgary tried to determine whether poor treatment continuity was associated with higher rates of use of acute care for all reasons and potentially prevented, as well as with suboptimal prescribing of drugs recommended by the guidelines.

The researchers found that hospital use increased among patients who experienced worse treatment continuity. Poor continuity has also led to suboptimal prescribing of recommended statins. The researchers concluded that poor treatment continuity is associated with increased use of health services in general among those suffering from CKD. They recommend the use of targeted strategies that strengthen the patient-provider relationship and provide advice to physicians regarding the recommended appointment.