The cost-of-illness of multiple sclerosis in Jordan.

Abstract

BACKGROUND Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological autoimmune disease that imposes a significant financial burden on healthcare systems. This study aims to determine the cost of illness for MS in Jordan, a country where data on the economic impact of MS are scarce. The objective of this study is to assess both direct and indirect costs associated with MS care in Jordan's public healthcare system. METHODS Data were collected during the year 2020-2021, annual cost of illness was estimated using a cross-sectional snowball sampling design. Eligible patients completed a self-reported questionnaire to provide sociodemographic, physician visit, and diagnostic and laboratory test data. We estimated indirect costs using an adjusted Human Capital Approach. RESULTS This study included 383 people with MS (PwMS), 73.1% of whom were female and 61.4% between 26 and 45. Nearly 79.6% of PwMS took Disease Modifying Therapies (DMTs), and 40% had relapses in the year 2020-2021. One-third use non-DMTs and equipment for assistance like canes and walkers. The average annual cost per patient was 11,719 USD, with direct costs amounting to 11,252 USD and indirect costs at 467 USD. The total cost for all participants was 748,299 USD. The estimated cost of non-DMT, medical tools, diagnostic tests, and hospitalization per patient was 53 USD, 51 USD, 99 USD, and 235 USD respectively. CONCLUSION The high costs for Disease Modifying Therapies (DMTs) state the necessity of resource optimization in Jordan public healthcare facilities. Such findings yield policy-informing actionable insights, suggesting strategic investments in more cost-effective DMTs with potential improvement in accessibility and reduction in the overall economic burden faced by both patients and governments.