OBJECTIVE: This paper reviews findings and problems of heavy users research. METHODS: The German- and English language literature about "heavy users" and relevant border areas was analyzed. RESULTS: Heavy users are patients who consume a disproportionate share of medical services. The characteristics of heavy users are inhomogeneous. Social problems, denial of illness, non-compliance, comorbid personality disorders and substance misuse contribute significantly to heavy use. Future studies should define heavy use illness-related. More research is needed to clarify whether heavy use of special services is adequate to the patients situation. CONCLUSIONS: Heavy users should be identified early, in order to offer them alternative services, which better fulfil the patients specific conditions and prevent an inadequate heavy use of expensive services.
OBJECTIVE: This paper reviews findings and problems of heavy users research. METHODS: The German- and English language literature about "heavy users" and relevant border areas was analyzed. RESULTS: Heavy users are patients who consume a disproportionate share of medical services. The characteristics of heavy users are inhomogeneous. Social problems, denial of illness, non-compliance, comorbid personality disorders and substance misuse contribute significantly to heavy use. Future studies should define heavy use illness-related. More research is needed to clarify whether heavy use of special services is adequate to the patients situation. CONCLUSIONS: Heavy users should be identified early, in order to offer them alternative services, which better fulfil the patients specific conditions and prevent an inadequate heavy use of expensive services.
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