Digestive diseases and sciences
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Administrative procedure code data can estimate colonoscopy utilization; however, determining colonoscopy indication is more difficult as procedure codes do not inherently reflect the purpose (screening, surveillance, diagnosis) of the colonoscopy. ⋯ VHA procedure codes are very accurate for colonoscopy utilization; however, algorithms to ascertain indication have only moderate accuracy.
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To determine whether outcomes for patients admitted with UGIH differ depending on weekend versus weekday admission, and whether any such differences are mediated by discrepancies in the use and timing of endoscopy. ⋯ Weekend admission for UGIH is associated with an increased risk of death, slightly longer lengths of stay, and marginally higher in-patient charges. Discrepancies in the use and timing of endoscopy do not account for these differences.