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The cost of chronic constipation
Renée Pekmezaris1, Lorraine Aversa, Gisele Wolf-Klein
1Nerken Center for Research, New Hyde Park, New York 11040-1433, USA. rpekmezaris@parkerinstitute.org
Journal of the American Medical Directors Association
|June 17, 2003
Summary
Staffing costs are the primary expense in treating chronic constipation in elderly care facilities, exceeding medication expenses. This highlights the need to optimize care delivery to manage costs effectively.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Healthcare Economics
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Chronic constipation is prevalent among elderly individuals in long-term care settings.
- Understanding the economic burden of constipation management is crucial for resource allocation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cost of chronic constipation care in a long-term care facility.
- To identify the main cost drivers in managing chronic constipation.
Main Methods:
- A 6-week observational study of 31 elderly patients with chronic constipation.
- Data collection included patient demographics, functional status, medications, and detailed cost analysis of drugs and staff time.
- Costs were calculated using average wholesale prices and staff time allocation.
Main Results:
- The average daily cost for constipation care was $2.11 per patient.
- Laxatives like Fleet Enema and Milk of Magnesia comprised 49% of treatments.
- Staffing costs for drug administration represented 70% of total drug-related expenses.
Conclusions:
- Staffing costs are the most significant factor in the overall expense of chronic constipation care.
- Systematic reporting of drug utilization and costs in long-term care is needed.
- Optimizing staff time and drug administration can reduce the economic burden of constipation management.