AECC Final Report

The AECC was developed using a combination of statistical analysis and clinical input: the splits in the classification demonstrate statistical as well as clinical validity. An independent reviewer also reviewed the model outputs, thus providing further assurance of the quality of the resulting classification. The AECC adopts variables that are currently reported through national minimum data sets— visit type, episode end status, triage category, transport mode (arrival), age group and principal diagnosis short list code. It has also been designed so that improved measures of complexity can be introduced as they become available. Refinement of the AECC relies on good quality costing data. Hospitals will need to continually improve their costing methods and reporting to provide a source to refine the classification.