Singap Med J
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With Singapore's ageing population, there are increasing numbers of elderly cyclists and motorcyclists. Compared to younger riders, this cohort sustains more injuries and has poorer outcomes. This study aimed to describe and compare patient demographics, injury patterns and outcomes among elderly cyclists and motorcyclists at a Level 1 trauma centre. ⋯ Elderly riders have unique injury patterns and consume significant healthcare resources. Trauma systems need to acknowledge this changing injury epidemiology and equip trauma centres with the necessary resources targeted at elderly patients. Future work should focus on strategies to minimise extremity and chest injuries.
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Patients with chronic diseases face difficulties when navigating the healthcare system. Using the Healthcare System Hassles Questionnaire (HSHQ) developed by Parchman et al, this study aimed to explore the degree of hassles faced by patients in primary care in Singapore and identify the characteristics associated with greater hassles. ⋯ Patients in our population reported less hassles than those in the study by Parchman et al did. Increasing age and lower education level were associated with less hassles. Further analysis of the types of chronic diseases may yield new information about the association of healthcare hassles with the number and types of chronic diseases.