ECONOMIC BURDEN OF MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS IN GEORGIA.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Health Economics
• Public Health

Background:

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) poses a significant challenge to healthcare systems globally.
• Understanding the economic burden of MS is crucial for resource allocation and policy development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the economic burden of multiple sclerosis (MS) in Georgia.
• To compare healthcare costs based on disease course and disability levels.
• To identify key cost drivers in MS patient management.

Main Methods:

• A hospital-based cohort study was conducted at the P. Sarajishvili Institute of Neurology and Medical Center Pineo.
• Direct medical costs were analyzed for MS patients treated between 2019 and 2020.
• Costs were compared between patients receiving disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) and those not on DMTs.

Main Results:

• The mean annual direct medical cost for MS patients on DMTs was significantly higher (23,254.7 Lari / $7,382.5) compared to non-DMT patients (1,429.1 Lari / $453.6).
• Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) were identified as the primary driver of healthcare costs for MS patients.
• MS imposes a considerable economic burden on Georgia's healthcare system and society.

Conclusions:

• MS represents a significant economic burden in Georgia.
• DMTs are the main factor contributing to the high direct medical costs associated with MS care.
• Further research into cost-effectiveness and resource optimization for MS management in Georgia is warranted.