Direct Costs of Heart Failure in the Autonomous Region of Madeira

Abstract

Introduction: Heart failure (HF) is a global public health
issue. Its economic impact in the Autonomous Region of
Madeira (ARM) is unknown. Thus, profiling HF prevalence,
healthcare utilization and related costs in the ARM is fundamental. We aimed to estimate the direct costs of HF in the ARM.

Methods: Prevalence-based, cost-of-illness study based on 2014, from the health system perspective. Hospitalization
and emergency department (ED) episodes were identified
by the International Classification of Diseases 9th edition
– Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM). Patterns of visits, tests
and medication consumption were derived from previous
reported research. Costs were based on Disease Related
Groups and from the official regional health system tariffs.

Results: There was a 4.93% prevalence above the age of 25 (9201 patients). Out of these, 4140 were symptomatic and hence healthcare consumers. We identified 426 admissions
with a primary diagnosis of HF, 17 305 primary care medical visits, 857 ED visits and 6707 medical hospital visits. Total direct costs were €4 089 540.10. Hospital-related care was responsible for the majority of costs (56%), followed by primary care costs (23%), medication (20%) and long-term care (2%). The average annual cost per patient was €987.81.

Conclusion: Total annual direct costs amounted to 0.1% of the gross domestic product of the ARM and 1.2% of the
healthcare budget of the ARM for 2014. This research adds
information about the disease that was until now unknown
and should lead to better disease management programs.