The role of payment sources in the continuation of rehabilitation therapy in tertiary hospitals for patients with traumatic spinal cord injury: a study in Southwest China

This study examines how payment methods affect discharge plans for patients with traumatic spinal cord injuries (TSCI) in China, specifically regarding continued rehabilitation therapy. The research found that medical insurance coverage, which is limited to a short period after the injury, significantly influences whether patients can continue receiving rehabilitation at tertiary hospitals. Patients with other payment sources consider the severity of their injury and associated complications more when deciding on their discharge plan.

• 1
  Medical insurance patients' discharge plans are primarily affected by the duration of their spinal cord injury due to coverage limitations.
• 2
  Patients with non-medical insurance payment sources, discharge plans are influenced by the caregiver, payment sources, AIS level, and co-UTI.
• 3
  Patients consider a higher AIS level and co-UTI as the requirement for tertiary hospital therapy.