The use of health care resources by young adults with spina bifida.

Residents of Sheffield, U.K., aged 16-21 years with myelomeningocele were interviewed to ascertain morbidity in the preceding 12 mths., current and past use of hospital and community health care resources, and dependence on carers. Twenty-one patients, representing 49% of those known to paediatric services, responded. In the previous year, 71% of the group had been ill due to their spina bifida. 81% of subjects received hospital supervision, mostly by a urologist. Many hospital contacts had been lost, mostly by age 18 years. Little use was made of community health services or general practitioners. The majority of patients were dependent on their parents for management of incontinence, and care of skin vulnerable to pressure sores. 52% of respondents were dissatisfied with current provision of health care. Particular need was expressed for community nurses and physiotherapists.