Psoriasis causes significant economic burden to patients

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Health Economics

Background:

• Psoriasis imposes substantial financial and time burdens on patients.
• Many studies underestimate the total economic impact by omitting patient-incurred costs like travel and time.
• Understanding the multidimensional economic burden is crucial for comprehensive patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the multidimensional economic burden of psoriasis on patients.
• To quantify direct and indirect costs associated with psoriasis management.
• To highlight overlooked cost factors in previous research.

Main Methods:

• A 1-year study (2009-2010) involving 232 Finnish patients with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis.
• Data collected via patient questionnaires, medical records, and social insurance reimbursement data.
• Employed the Human Capital Approach for estimating time-related costs.

Main Results:

• Total costs were higher for patients undergoing traditional systemic treatments or phototherapy.
• Travel and associated time costs constituted over 60% of phototherapy expenses.
• Home skin care was time-intensive, contributing significantly to patient burden.
• Hospital visits represented the majority of direct costs, with primary care visits being minimal.

Conclusions:

• Patient co-payments and visit charges are minor cost components.
• Travel expenses and lost time represent the predominant economic burden for psoriasis patients.
• Future cost-of-illness studies must incorporate travel and time costs for accurate assessment.