Cost implications of treatment of diabetes mellitus in a secondary healthcare facility in Ibadan

Abstract

Background: Diabetes and its complications remain a major health challenge in Nigeria. Aim: To evaluate the economic cost of type 2 diabetes mellitus in a secondary healthcare facility in Ibadan, Nigeria. Methods: The study was carried out in Oyo state general hospital Ibadan, Nigeria using two methods of data collection. A retrospective study design in which data were extracted from case files of diabetic patients using a pre-designed data form and secondly with an Open-ended, Affirmation, Reflective listening and Summaries (OARS) method. Data was analysed using frequencies mean and correlation statistical tools. Results: Majority of the patients (73%) earned less than $125 per month. Hypertension was the most common (98.08%) co-morbid disorder with diabetes mellitus and the most common complication noted was neuropathy (48.10%). Metformin was the most widely prescribed oral hypoglycemic agent (90.40%). The annual cost of diabetes mellitus was $20,827.37 for the 52 patients while the average annual cost of diabetes per patient was $400.52 but higher in age group 60-69 years. There was a significant correlation (/; <0.05) between age (at onset of diabetes and at registration at the healthcare facility) and total cost of drugs used. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that type 2 diabetes mellitus and its complications imposed significant economic burden on the patients. There is need for the policy maker of health sector in the country to plan towards reducing the financial burden of diabetes on the society.