THE DIRECT MEDICAL COST AND PATTERN OF ANTIDIABETIC THERAPY AMONG PATIENTS MANAGED IN A RESOURCE-POOR SETTING

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a prevalent disease in Sub-Saharan Africa with debilitating effects on health and socio-economic activities. Payment for health services, particularly the medications to manage the ailment, remains challenging and worsens a household's access to care. The study's objectives were to determine the total and mean drug costs of antidiabetic medications and drug prescription patterns among outpatients seeking diabetic care in a tertiary health facility.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 104 respondents using a systematic sampling technique at the endocrinology unit of Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, from July 14 to November 30, 2022. The monthly expenditures (total and mean) for drug payments were assessed, and the drug prescription pattern was similarly evaluated.

Results: The total and mean costs for antidiabetic medications were N1, 576, 458/$3,608.69, and N7, 436.07/$17.02 per month, respectively, with all (100%) respondents paying out-of-pocket for the drugs prescribed. Biguanides (metformin) 71 (68.2%) was the most prescribed drug among respondents attending the clinic, along with other antidiabetic medications.

Conclusion: The drug cost of treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus amongst respondents at the facility was high and unsustainable, while everyone paid out-of-pocket, with biguanides being the most prescribed. Health subsidies in alignment with community-based contributory health insurance will help protect the vulnerable financially and improve access to antidiabetic care.

Keywords: Antidiabetic drugs, Medical cost, Prescribing pattern, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus