Comparing the profile of hospital discharges between nationals and international migrants: a decade of contrasts and health challenges for Chile (2013 to 2022)
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Introduction: Migration is a recognized social determinant in the world. Chile has experienced an abrupt increase in immigration in recent years, demanding, among other things, health care services. The aim of this study was to compare the profile of hospital discharges between nationals and migrants in Chile. Methods: An observational study was conducted using routinely collected health data, analyzing the database of hospital discharges of the Ministry of Health in the decade between 2013 and 2022. Results: There were 16 013 995 hospital discharges (95% Chilean and 2% foreigners), with higher proportions in the north of the country. Departures of foreigners show a steady increase, rising sixfold over the decade (from 0.7 to almost 4%). There are significant differences in the distribution by sex (Chileans: 41.2% men/58.8% women; foreigners: 22.4% men/77.6% women). According to age, in both populations, the highest frequency of discharges occurred between 20 and 39 years of age (30.3% in Chileans and 68.7% in foreigners). Death at discharge occurred in 2.4% of Chileans and 0.9% of foreigners. The most frequent diagnosis of discharge was the pregnancy, delivery and puerperium' group, with significant differences (20% Chileans and 58.5% foreigners). Chileans have a higher proportion of cardiovascular diagnosis (12.1% versus 7.5%) and respiratory diseases (13.2% versus 7.5%), while foreigners have a higher proportion of trauma, poisoning and other external causes (13.9% Chileans versus 22.1% foreigners). Conclusions: The growth of the immigrant population has increased the demand for hospital resources, requiring adjustments in planning and resource allocation. It is suggested that inclusive policies focus on prioritizing maternal-child care and accident and injury prevention for migrants.
Source: Medwave
Authors: Jessy Hernández Vilches, Muriel Ramírez-Santana
Institutions: Hospital la Serena, Universidad Católica del Norte
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $600
OpenAlex ID: W4414402050