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Resource implications of patients with multidrug resistant tuberculosis
1Department of Respiratory Medicine, Bart's and the London NHS Trust, St Bartholomew's Hospital, London EC1A 7BE, UK. vlcw@btinternet.com
Thorax
|October 26, 2000
Summary
Managing multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB) is significantly more expensive than drug-sensitive TB, costing over £60,000 per case. This highlights the need for better funding and strategic planning for MDR TB care.
Area of Science:
- Medical Economics
- Infectious Disease Management
- Public Health Policy
Background:
- Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB) necessitates complex treatment regimens and extensive multidisciplinary care.
- The financial burden associated with managing MDR TB cases is substantial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the costs of managing pulmonary MDR TB with drug-sensitive tuberculosis.
- To inform healthcare providers and policymakers about the economic impact of MDR TB.
Main Methods:
- A cost analysis comparing nine HIV-negative pulmonary MDR TB patients with 18 matched controls with drug-sensitive TB.
- Inclusion of costs for outpatient/inpatient care, isolation, medications, monitoring, procedures, and referrals.
Main Results:
- The mean cost for managing pulmonary MDR TB exceeded £60,000 per case.
- The mean cost for managing drug-sensitive TB was £6,040 per case.
Conclusions:
- Healthcare professionals and commissioners may underestimate MDR TB management costs.
- Serious consequences for healthcare units treating MDR TB necessitate strategic funding decisions at regional or governmental levels in the UK.