Introduction
The obesity epidemic in Western Sydney is critically affecting socioeconomically disadvantaged populations, creating an urgent need for publicly funded bariatric services. [1] While most surgeries are privately funded, public hospitals disproportionately handle complications due to inconsistent follow-up care, further straining limited resources. [2] In 2014-2015 the most common adverse event was related to complications of internal prosthetic devices. [3] Our cost analysis of removal of Gastric Bands underscores the financial burden on the public health system and highlights the necessity for sustained public investment to mitigate these costs.
Method
We conducted a retrospective review of data from the Western Sydney Local Health District, focusing on patients who underwent bariatric reversal procedures between January 2020 and December 2023. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with inflation-adjusted pricing compared to cost weights from the Independent Hospital Pricing Authority (IHPA). These results were compared against the National Weighted Average Unit; which attracts 2.12 NWAUs per episode for this acute admission ($5052) [3].
Results
A total of 38 patients were studied; 89.7% were women. The mean age was 50.9 (30 – 82). Inpatient costs ranged from $3,867 to $50,410. Detailed financial results will be presented.
Conclusion
Public funding for bariatric care is essential to reduce the financial burden of managing complications in public hospitals, particularly in socioeconomically disadvantaged such as Western Sydney. Strategic investment will not only lower long-term healthcare costs but also improve access and outcomes for underserved populations in need of these life-changing procedures.