Is council tax valuation band a predictor of mortality?

• Main Authors: Taylor Gordon J (Author), Beale Norman R (Author), Straker-Cook Dawn MK (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: BMC, 2002-09-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.

Summary

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>All current UK indices of socio-economic status have inherent problems, especially those used to govern resource allocation to the health sphere. The search for improved markers continues: this study proposes and tests the possibility that Council Tax Valuation Band (CTVB) might match requirements.</p> <p>Presentation of the hypothesis</p> <p>To determine if there is an association between CTVB of final residence and mortality risk using the death registers of a UK general practice.</p> <p>Testing the hypothesis</p> <p>Standardised death rates and odds ratios (ORs) for groups defined by CTVB of dwelling (A - H) were calculated using one in four denominator samples from the practice lists. Analyses were repeated three times - between number of deaths and CTVB of residence of deceased 1992 - 1994 inclusive, 1995 - 1997 inc., 1998 - 2000 inc.</p> <p>In 856 deaths there were consistent and significant differences in death rates between CTVBs: above average for bands A and B residents; below average for other band residents. There were significantly higher ORs for A, B residents who were female and who died prematurely (before average group life expectancy).</p> <p>Implications of the hypothesis</p> <p>CTVB of final residence appears to be a proxy marker of mortality risk and could be a valuable indicator of health needs resource at household level. It is worthy of further exploration.</p>

Item Description

10.1186/1471-2458-2-17
1471-2458