Social Determinants of Health and Sepsis: A Comparative Study of Sepsis Patients and the General Patient Population

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

1-1-2025

Abstract

Previous literature has highlighted the significant impact of Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) on sepsis outcomes, including mortality, readmission, and length of stay (LOS). These critical metrics can impact healthcare system efficiency and resource allocation. Limited studies have compared SDOH disparities between sepsis and the general patient population. This study utilizes data-driven methodologies in healthcare analytics to examine SDOH disparities between sepsis patients and the general patient population. Using patient data from May 2022 to April 2024 at a Baton Rouge, Louisiana hospital, this study analyzes differences in age, sex, chronic health conditions, and the Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) between these groups. Statistical analysis was performed using the Two-Proportions Z-Test to determine significant differences in SDOH distributions. Older age groups (65-74 years and 75-89 years) were significantly higher in proportions among sepsis patients compared to the general patient population. Younger age groups (18-24 years, 25-34 years, 35-44 years, and 45-54 years) were significantly lower in proportions among sepsis patients compared to the general patient population. Sepsis patients had significantly higher proportions of chronic conditions, including asthma, chronic kidney disease, congestive heart failure, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and COPD, compared to the general patient population. Sepsis patients had a significantly high SVI, while the general patient population had a significantly low SVI. All significant p-values were below the alpha level of 0.05. Findings highlight SDOH as a key sepsis risk factor, underscoring the role of data analytics in optimizing healthcare resources.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Iise Annual Conference and Expo 2025 Conference Proceedings

First Page

478

Last Page

483

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