Background

Multimorbidity, defined as the coexistence of two or more chronic diseases in an individual, has become a major public health concern worldwide. The increasing prevalence of multimorbidity places substantial pressure on primary healthcare systems and negatively impacts patient outcomes.

Objective

To evaluate the clinical outcomes, healthcare utilization, and quality of life among patients with multimorbidity receiving care in primary healthcare settings.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was conducted involving 850 adult patients attending five primary healthcare centers between January 2023 and December 2024. Patients were categorized into multimorbid (≥2 chronic conditions) and non-multimorbid groups. Clinical outcomes including hospitalization rates, emergency department visits, medication burden, quality of life, and mortality were assessed. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate regression models.

Results

Among the study population, 62.1% had multimorbidity. Hypertension (68%), diabetes mellitus (54%), and chronic kidney disease (31%) were the most common conditions. Patients with multimorbidity demonstrated significantly higher hospitalization rates (28.5% vs. 9.3%, p<0.001), increased emergency visits (3.4 vs. 1.2 annually, p<0.001), greater polypharmacy prevalence (71% vs. 18%, p<0.001), and lower quality-of-life scores (58.2±12.3 vs. 79.5±10.1, p<0.001). Mortality was also significantly higher among multimorbid patients (6.4% vs. 1.7%, p<0.05).

Conclusion

Multimorbidity is associated with poorer clinical outcomes, increased healthcare utilization, and diminished quality of life in primary healthcare patients. Integrated patient-centered management strategies are essential to improve outcomes and reduce healthcare burden.