Cost analysis for ambulatory treatment of cystic fibrosis patients in Germany. Overview of the prospective study results

PURPOSE: Main objective of this study is to assess and evaluate resource use in outpatient treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF) in Germany and to compare this with current reimbursement. METHODS: Outpatient treatment was evaluated in seven different CF centers.Clinical patient data, resource use, and time consumption were recorded in 2006. A micro-costing approach was used to price resource use data. RESULTS: Mean costs of 488 Euros per patient (n = 326) and quarter occurred. Remuneration (252 Euros per patient/quarter) covered only 52% of the total costs. Furthermore, a considerable time and financial burden for patients as well as decreasing quality of life with increasing age were found. Costs for medication came to 21,604 Euros per patient/year. CONCLUSION: Human resources in German CF centers today already are below the requirements set by the European consensus for standards of CF care. It will be crucial in assuring a high level of patient care to reach a cost-covering reimbursement scheme in Germany.