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Health care utilization in multiple sclerosis: a population-based study in Olmsted County, MN
K A Stolp-Smith1, E J Atkinson, M E Campion
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Neurology
|June 20, 1998
Summary
Most individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) do not incur higher medical costs than the general population. Only those with severe MS or males with MS showed significantly higher annual billed charges.
Area of Science:
- Medical Economics
- Epidemiology
- Neurology
Background:
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease impacting individuals differently.
- Understanding the economic burden of MS is crucial for healthcare planning and resource allocation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the acute ambulatory and hospital-billed charges for individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in Olmsted County, Minnesota.
- To assess if MS patients incur higher healthcare costs than the general population.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 155 individuals with MS was compared to age- and gender-matched controls.
- Billed charges for inpatient and outpatient medical care over a 5-year period were analyzed.
- Disability levels were assessed using the Minimal Record of Disability for MS and correlated with charges.
Main Results:
- Median annual billed charges for most MS patients (less severe and relapsing-remitting) were comparable to controls.
- Individuals with severe MS incurred significantly higher annual medical charges ($5,440) compared to controls.
- Male MS patients had higher median annual total charges than male controls, while female MS patients did not differ.
Conclusions:
- Acute healthcare charges for the majority of Multiple Sclerosis patients are similar to the general population.
- Healthcare costs for MS patients are primarily driven by disease severity, particularly in advanced stages.
- Disability level, as measured by the Expanded Disability Status Scale, is a key predictor of healthcare charges in MS.