An Analysis of Reduction in Medical Expenditures by e-Health Systems: Case of Nishiaizu Town, Fukushima Prefecture

摘要: This paper analyzes the effects of e-health systems on medical expenditures. An system monitors health condition patients at home by transmitting patients' health-related data to a remote institution via telecommunications network, allowing be monitored institutions 24 hours day. Previous research has identified following system: (i) reduced anxiety in day-to-day life; (ii) stabilization illness; (iii) enhancement consciousness; and (iv) decrease In order test significance these effects, we conducted case study Nishiaizu Town, which been making full use since 1994. was second local government Japan introduce system; then, core town's health, welfare, services. The authors field 2000, 2001 2006, taking advantage readily available expenditure data. Our analysis compares expenditures with nationwide average for four distinct categories patients, using difference tests Pearson correlations. former examines differences levels, while latter measures trends. We compare before after introduction Nishiaizu's system. conclude that may have had significant residents classified as "Elderly" "General." category includes most users Nishiaizu. make more rigorous analysis, require detailed data, such individuals' their experiences