Healthcare use of COVID-19 patients within 3 months of diagnosis and associated factors

Abstract Background and aim Healthcare utilization of the population changed by COVID-19 pandemic. There is limited research on healthcare use patients. This study aimed to describe patients within 3 months after diagnosis investigate associated factors. Methods Patients older than 18-years who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA in Dokuz Eylül University Hospital-Turkey November December 2020 (n = 3597) were included this retrospective cohort study. In total, data from 2978 analyzed. Data collected through telephone interviews. Dependent variables patient-reported general related follow-up. Age, gender, chronic disease history, number initial symptoms, hospitalization status independent variables. Chi-square was used compare categorical Univariate multivariate (backward elimination method) logistic regression models conducted identify predictive Results 32% cases sought three while 11.4% visits due COVID-19. The most common outpatient chest diseases (30.3%), emergency room (29.1%), internal medicine (16.2%). Backward stepwise selection identified female gender (OR 1.23, 1.05-1.44), having more comorbidities 2.64, 1.95-3.56), 1.54, 1.16-2.03) use, 5 symptoms 1.52, 1.13-2.04), 1.65, 1.09-2.43), 1.77, 1.22-2.51) use. Conclusions Having comorbidities, need are main determinants health care infection. Key messages Indicators severe clinical conditions post resource planning should consider needs