OBJECTIVES To evaluate the distribution and functioning of South African intensive care units (ICUs) and high care units (HCUs), in particular the extent to which units were 'closed units'. DESIGN AND SETTING A descriptive, non-interventive, observational study design was used. An audit of all public and private sector ICUs and HCUs in South Africa was undertaken. RESULTS A 100% sample was ...

BACKGROUND Factors related to socioeconomic status and health care quality and management may influence mortality and morbidity rates due to acute myocardial infarction (AMI). OBJECTIVE To compare mortality and morbidity in patients with AMI hospitalized in public and private hospitals. METHODS An observational study, with comparison groups. Clinical evaluation on admission, and recording o...