Economic burden of Thai patients with inflammatory demyelinating central nervous system disorders (IDCDs)

The economic impact has never been explored among Thai patients with inflammatory demyelinating central nervous system disorders. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate economic burden of Thai patients with inflammatory demyelinating central nervous system disorders i.e., clinical isolated syndrome (CIS), multiple sclerosis (MS), and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) based on a societal perspective using prevalence-based approach. Data on direct medical cost were retrospectively retrieved from an electronic health record database of the patients receiving care in three specialized clinics for MS and related disorders. Data on direct non-medical and indirect costs were collected from face to face interviews using developed data collection forms. All expenses were adjusted to the 2017 year value using consumer price index. The descriptive statistical analysis was undertaken. Direct medical cost was the highest proportion (58%) of total annual average cost of MS, CIS and NMOSD patients. The annual average direct non-medical cost of all patients was 1,969±3,187 USD and informal care cost was the largest portion (56%). The total economic burden of patients with inflammatory demyelinating central nervous system disorders in Thailand was 6,287,000 USD, which NMOSD (3,447,000 USD) consumed the highest cost compared with MS (2,390,000 USD) and CIS (450,000 USD). This study demonstrated the high economic burden of patients with inflammatory demyelinating central nervous system disorders in Thailand. This would be a useful evidence which requires attention from policy makers in Thailand.