OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENDITURE AND FINANCIAL COPING STRATEGIES FOR MANAGEMENT OF DIABETES AT GA SOUTH MUNICIPAL HOSPITAL

ABSTRACT

Background: In 2017, there were 425 million people living with diabetes globally, while in Ghana, the number of adults with diabetes was 518,400. The International Diabetes Federation revealed that patients with diabetes have health expenses of 673 billion USD annually. In Ghana, financial and non-financial cost associated with diabetes accounts for over two-thirds of household‘s income.

Objective: The objective of this study was to determine out-of-pocket payments and financial coping strategies for management of diabetics at Ga South Municipal Hospital.

Method: The study design was cross sectional using quantitative data collected from Ga South Municipal Hospital. The cost-of-illness and human capital approach were used to determine the direct, indirect and intangible costs. Financial coping strategies adopted by diabetics was also determined. A total of 120 adult diabetics were interviewed during the study.

Results and Findings: The total monthly direct cost for diabetes constituted about 90% of the total cost profile of diabetes treatment among diabetics in Ga South Municipal Hospital. More than half of respondents listed self-financing as one of their treatment sources. Treatment costs for diabetes continues to rise with the cost of medication, a major driving factor.

Conclusion and Recommendations: Many patients with diabetes continue to make out of pockets payments to support treatment for diabetes. The cost data of the study – direct, indirect and intangible costs could be used by public health promoters and educators as a funding advocacy tool to support diabetes prevention and promotion activities.