ABSTRACT
The incidence and geographic distribution of urosepsis, a life-threatening condition in older adults, is not well understood. The Florida State Inpatient Databases (2012–2014) showed an increase in the incidence of community-acquired urosepsis (5.37 to 6.16 per 1000), particularly among Hispanic older adults residing in low socioeconomic, urban areas with large numbers of nursing homes. These findings suggest a state policy is needed to address community-based preventative care and education for early detection of urosepsis in low-income urban areas. It is important for local health departments to partner with nursing homes to address disparities in care that disproportionally impact Hispanics.
Disclosure statement
We have no financial interests or benefits to disclose.
Data availability statement
The Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project State Inpatient Data were purchased from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality: https://www.hcup-us.ahrq.gov/tech_assist/centdist.jsp. The Florida Department of Elder Affairs data were publicly available: http://elderaffairs.state.fl.us/doea/pubs/stats/County_2016/florida_map.html
Key points
There has been an increase in the incidence of urosepsis among older adults.
Hospital-acquired urosepsis has decreased statewide in Florida.
Community-acquired urosepsis has increased in low income, urban areas in Florida.
Health agencies should consider these findings when revising health plans.