The relationship between mortality and two indicators of morbidity.

Abstract

The Resource Allocation Working Party (RAWP) concluded that standardized mortality ratios are the best available indicators of geographical variations in morbidity. This paper gives the results of a statistical analysis of the relationship between mortality and 2 indicators of morbidity, obtained from the 1971 census, for 3 age groups. The level of aggregation in the data is comparable with that at district or area level. Strong linear relationships are obtained, suggesting that it is reasonable to use mortality data in the RAWP formulae in applications at area or district level. This method of resource allocation should not be used in isolation from planning. A possible solution which reduces conflict between the 2 approaches is to incorporate mortality data in the planning indicators used to establish relative need and to take due account of established patterns of service and local circumstances.