Health insurance data analysis on home nursing care in Hungary

Introduction: Home nursing care was introduced in Hungary in 1996. Aim: The aim of this study was to analyse health insurance data and utilization indicators of the Hungarian home nursing care. Method: Data derived from the database of the National Health Insurance Fund Administration (2001-2012). The number of patients and visits, and the ratio of special nursing and special therapy (physiotherapy, speech therapy) were analysed. Results: The number of patients increased by 41.3% from 36.560 (2001) to 51.647 (2012). The number of visits also increased by 41.9% from 841.715 (2011) to 1.194.670 (2012). Significant geographical inequalities were found in the ratio of special nursing and special therapy as well as nursing needs. The ratio of reimbursement for special nursing was the highest in county Nograd (80.4%), Szabolcs-Szatmar-Bereg (79.7%) and Komarom- Esztergom (74.6%), while the lowest in county Zala (53.0%), Csongrad (52.7%) and Budapest (47.9%). Conclusions: There are significant inequalities in the home nursing care in Hungary. In order to decrease these inequalities, specific guidelines should be developed for home nursing care.