This report explains how the cost model generates (cost) data that is relevant for injury prevention policy. This data is especially valuable for setting policy priorities as it sheds light on the relative economic importance of specific accident categories and scenarios. The report concludes the following facts: the total medical costs of accident related injuries; the number of injury-patients treated in EDs and the follow-up treatment; a breakdown of the costs; the split between men and women; increasing costs with increasing age; breakdown of accidents per environment (home and leisure, traffic, etc.); injuries to the lower extremities account for 45% of the total. The report also deals with the methodology - the benefits and a maintenance plan. The overriding consensus of the report is that 'prevention is better than cure'. (Author/publisher)
Samenvatting