Medical services utilisation: Which role does social support play? - Results from the study of health in pomerania (SHIP)

Aims: This study examined the role of social support in relation to the use of medical services in a north-eastern German population. Methods: A representative random sample of the Pomeranian population (4,310 persons) was analysed. The response rate was 68.8%. Bivariate and multivariate associations between socio-economic variables, need (evaluated and perceived health status), social support and the number of consultations (general practitioners or internists) were assessed. The SF-12 and the MOS social Support survey were used as standardised instruments. Results: Social supports showed no main effects on utilisation rates. individuals living in a Partnership showed lower levels of utilisation (median: 4.3 vs. 6.2). The combination of high morbidity and low social support or no partnership results in an increase in medical services utilisation. Conclusions: Social support treatments that target an appropriate use of the health care system can be a cost-effective measure in chronically ill patients.