LIMITATIONS
There are several limitations that are worth mentioning. Concerning the
HRQOL variable, this data captured the patient’s experience within the
past month. While this method was most appropriate for this study
design, examining HRQOL over a broader period may depict a deeper
understanding of the connection between healthcare utilization and
HRQOL.
In referencing the inclusion/exclusion criteria, this study excluded
patients with comorbid developmental disabilities, but did not exclude
patients with comorbid physical illnesses. The PedsQL 3.0 assisted with
gathering data related to SCD as opposed to using a generic scale;
however, comorbid diseases such as diabetes may also influence symptoms
of SCD that contributes to the frequency of healthcare use. Excluding or
controlling for this data may improve the power of this type of study.
While the number of participants included in this study mirrors previous
research in this area, the number of patients in the current study is
hardly generalizable. The results highlight concerns surrounding
healthcare usage and patient wellbeing; however, these results should be
interpreted with caution. Perhaps a multicenter, longitudinal study
design would further substantiate research in this area.