One consequence may be that remote community members are more likely to disengage from primary health care, present later and more acutely unwell, with an increased
likelihood of hospitalisation which could otherwise have been avoided if primary health care had been more effective.
Hepatic encephalopathy occurs when the liver can not remove certain toxins and chemicals, such as ammonia, from the blood.1 These toxins and chemicals then build up and enter the brain.1 Hepatic encephalopathy is one
of the major complications
of cirrhosis (scarring
of the liver), and a leading cause
of hospital re-admission due to its recurrence, despite treatment.1 It can occur suddenly in people with acute liver failure, but is seen more often in those with chronic liver disease.1 Symptoms
of hepatic encephalopathy include mild confusion, forgetfulness, poor concentration and personality or mood changes, but can progress to extreme anxiety, seizures, severe confusion, jumbled and slurred speech and slow movement.1 The first step in treatment is to identify and treat any factors that cause hepatic encephalopathy.2 Once the episode has resolved, further treatment aims to reduce the production and absorption
of toxins, such as ammonia.1 Generally, there are two types
of medication used to reduce the
likelihood of another hepatic encephalopathy episode — lactulose and rifaximin.2 However, it remains a leading cause
of hospitalisations and re-
hospitalisations in cirrhotic patients, despite the use
of the above - mentioned standard
of care treatment.
However, if these procedures are not in line with the medical history
of the policyholder in question or necessarily required during the course
of their medication and
hospitalisation, there is a
likelihood that the claim might be rejected.