Describing the Health Status of Women Experiencing Violence or Abuse: An Observational Study Using Claims Data

Abstract

Introduction: Violence against women (VAW) can result in long-term and varied sequela for survivors, making it difficult to evaluate healthcare intervention. This study seeks to improve understanding of the healthcare experiences of women survivors prior to a violence-related diagnosis, allowing healthcare systems to better design strategies to meet the needs of this population. Methods: Using population-based data from 2016 to 2019, this cross-sectional observational study presents healthcare spending, utilization, and diagnostic patterns of privately insured women, age 18 or older, in the 10-months prior to an episode of care for a documented experience of violence (DEV). Results: Of 12 624 764 women meeting enrollment criteria, 10 980 women had DEV. This group had higher general medical complexity, despite being 10 years younger than the comparison group (mean age 32.7 vs 43.5). These relationships held up when comparing participants in each cohort by age. Additional key findings including higher numbers of medical visits across clinical settings and higher total cost ($10 138-$4585). Conclusions: The study utilized population-based data, to describe specific areas of health and medical cost for women with DEV. Increased medical complexity and utilization patterns among survivors broaden the understanding of the health profiles and healthcare touchpoints of survivors to inform and optimize strategies for medical system engagement and resource allocation for this public health crisis.

Domestic Violence Among Women Attending Primary Health Care Centers: Effect on Their Mental and Physical Well-Being, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

“…Approximately 19.3% of the patients who answered the survey had poorer health than nonabused patients and were more likely to agree to psychological assistance. An observational study has shown similar results of privately insured physically abused women; they demonstrated a threefold-fold higher comorbidity score, a ninefold increase in substance use, and a 2.7fold increased rate of mental health diagnoses compared to their peers [23]. To help sexual abuse victims, the challenge of convincing the victim to recognize that behavior must be addressed.…”

The Post-Traumatic Growth Journey of Women Who Have Survived Intimate Partner Violence: A Synthesized Theory Emphasizing Obstacles and Facilitating Factors

“…Suffering IPV also affects the victim’s social wellbeing in a negative way [ 4 , 5 , 9 , 21 ], as well as that of her children [ 4 , 5 , 7 , 9 , 21 , 22 ] and loved ones [ 5 , 9 , 21 , 23 ]. Women who have suffered IPV endure a higher illness burden, their comorbidity is high, they are more likely to be diagnosed with mental illness and are in increased danger of substance use disorders than women who have not experienced IPV or abuse [ 7 , 15 , 24 ].…”