Abstract

INTRODUCTION Migration is a recognized social determinant in the world. Chile has experienced an abrupt increase in immigration in recent years, with increasing demand on health care services. The aim of this study was to compare the profile of hospital discharges between nationals and migrants in Chile. METHODS An observational study was conducted using routinely collected health data, analyzing the database of hospital discharges of the Ministry of Health in the decade between 2013 and 2022. RESULTS There were 16 013 995 hospital discharges (95% Chilean and 2% foreigners and 3% with no information), with higher proportions in the north of the country. Discharches of foreigners show a steady increase, rising sixfold over the decade (from 0.7 to almost 4%). There are significant differences in the distribution by sex (Chileans: 41.2% men/58.8% women; foreigners: 22.4% men/ 77.6% women). According to age, in both populations, the highest frequency of discharges occurred between 20 and 39 years of age (30.3% in Chileans and 68.7% in foreigners). Death at discharge occurred in 2.4% of Chileans and 0.9% of foreigners. The most frequent diagnosis of discharge was the pregnancy, delivery and puerperium’ group, with significant differences (20% Chileans and 58.5% foreigners). Chileans have a higher proportion of cardiovascular diagnosis (12.1% versus 7.5%) and respiratory diseases (13.2% versus 7.5%), while foreigners have a higher proportion of trauma, poisoning and other external causes (13.9% Chileans versus 22.1% foreigners). CONCLUSIONS The growth of the immigrant population has increased the demand for hospital resources, requiring adjustments in planning and resource allocation. It is suggested that inclusive policies focus on prioritizing maternal-child care and accident and injury prevention for migrants. © 2025, Medwave Estudios Ltda. All rights reserved.