gms | German Medical Science

In the years of 2000-2004 about 1600 patients were subjected to the 21-days tinnitus compact cure. This concept is based on §23 of the German social insurance code.

Six and twelve month after the therapy, catamnestic data was collected with questionnaires.

Derived from the 5-years experience gained during the realisation of the Tinnitus compact cures, it was possible to transfer the 21-days model into a 3-days model (§140b of the German social insurance code - integrated healthcare).

The aim: To gain a sustainable reduction of psychological strain at significant cost-efficiency (improved Tinnitus differential diagnostic with consistent focal point therapy).

The comparison of both methods has resulted in the following findings:

• The patients of Tinnitus compact cures have (in average) been older, polymorbid and had a higher entry score of psychological strain.
• Patients of the integrated Tinnitus healthcare method were following better.
• The average post-therapeutic success is insignificantly different.
• There is less post-therapeutic sick leave from work at the integrated therapy.
• Necessary hospitalisation is in average the same.
• Post-therapeutic consultation of a doctor and discontinuation of Tinnitus-drugs are lower at patients of the integrated therapy.
• The cost-ratio is 7:1.

Comparing the figures of the study, we came up with the following conclusion:

• On the basis of the long-term study, both methods can be seen as equally effective.
• The compact cure is suited for older, polymorbid patients without occupational employment.
• The model of integrated healthcare is ideal for employed, active and motivated patients. This method is also practicable for ENT-practices with respective qualifications.