Study shows high healthcare costs associated with adult growth hormone deficiency
Individuals with a high likelihood of adult growth hormone deficiency (AGHD) incur substantially higher healthcare costs compared to those with moderate or low likelihoods, primarily due to associated comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, according to a study.
Understanding the trajectory of healthcare costs related to AGHD could aid in the rational allocation of resources and improve patient outcomes by facilitating early intervention and effective management strategies.
The study analyzed direct medical costs related to inpatient and outpatient claims, outpatient prescription claims, medication usage, clinical utilization records, and healthcare expenditures.
Findings revealed that individuals ranked as high-likelihood AGHD had a greater burden of comorbid illnesses such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes compared to those with moderate or low likelihood.
Furthermore, the study showed that those in the high-likelihood group incurred significantly higher mean total direct medical monthly costs ($1844.51) compared to those in the moderate- ($945.65) and low-likelihood groups ($459.10). Outpatient visits accounted for most costs, although the cost per visit was notably lower than for inpatient services. Additionally, costs tended to increase with age and peaked around the time individuals were assigned a level of AGHD likelihood.
This study underscores the importance of early detection and management of AGHD to alleviate its economic impact and improve patient outcomes. Further research and interventions aimed at addressing AGHD are warranted to optimize healthcare utilization and improve the quality of life for affected individuals.
Reference
Yuen KCJ, Blevins LS, Clemmons DR, et al. Medical Costs Associated with High/Moderate/Low Likelihood of Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency: A Healthcare Claims Database Analysis. Clinicoecon Outcomes Res. 2024;16:133-147. doi: 10.2147/CEOR.S445495. PMID: 38476578; PMCID: PMC10929649.
