Economic Impact of Poison Control Center Interventions on Hospitalization Costs in Algeria: A Retrospective Analysis
Author(s)
Sara Ouehb, Doctor1, Younes Zebbiche, Professor2, Idris Abdalli, Jr., Doctor3.
1university of health sciences, Algiers, Algeria, 2Algerian Federation of Pharmacy, Algiers, Algeria, 3Ispor Algeria, El Huarache, Algeria.
1university of health sciences, Algiers, Algeria, 2Algerian Federation of Pharmacy, Algiers, Algeria, 3Ispor Algeria, El Huarache, Algeria.
OBJECTIVES: Poisonings are a significant public health concern in Algeria, as they are worldwide. Management strategies range from simple observation to intensive care hospitalization. In this context, Poison Control Centers (PCCs) play a key role in supporting diagnosis, therapeutic decision-making, and prioritizing cases based on severity. Evaluating the economic impact of such centers has become a necessity to inform health policy.
This study aims to assess the economic impact of the Poison Control Center (PCC) on healthcare expenditures related to poisoning in Algeria.
METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted at the National Toxicology Center’s PCC from January to May 2025. It analyzed patient records from January to July 2024, focusing on poisoning cases in Algeria. Among the 6,663 calls received, 6,431 were related to poison exposures. Data on patient management, type of poisoning, age, sex, and clinical outcome were analyzed. A comparative model simulated a scenario without the PCC, where all non-hospitalized cases would have been directed, out of caution, to hospitalization at university medical centers. The average cost of a day in an emergency unit was estimated at 4,297.91 DZD (approximately 33.06 USD).
RESULTS: Out of 6,020 managed cases, 2,312 patients were hospitalized. In the absence of the PCC, 5,535 hospitalizations would likely have occurred—meaning 3,223 hospitalizations were avoided thanks to the PCC’s guidance. This represents a total cost saving of 13,851,454 DZD, equivalent to approximately 106,550 USD, or around 17.7 USD saved per patient. Additionally, patients managed at home showed a very favorable recovery rate (97.7%).
CONCLUSIONS: The PCC contributes to significantly reducing healthcare costs by avoiding unnecessary hospitalizations. These findings support strengthening the system and recognizing its strategic role in public health.
This study aims to assess the economic impact of the Poison Control Center (PCC) on healthcare expenditures related to poisoning in Algeria.
METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted at the National Toxicology Center’s PCC from January to May 2025. It analyzed patient records from January to July 2024, focusing on poisoning cases in Algeria. Among the 6,663 calls received, 6,431 were related to poison exposures. Data on patient management, type of poisoning, age, sex, and clinical outcome were analyzed. A comparative model simulated a scenario without the PCC, where all non-hospitalized cases would have been directed, out of caution, to hospitalization at university medical centers. The average cost of a day in an emergency unit was estimated at 4,297.91 DZD (approximately 33.06 USD).
RESULTS: Out of 6,020 managed cases, 2,312 patients were hospitalized. In the absence of the PCC, 5,535 hospitalizations would likely have occurred—meaning 3,223 hospitalizations were avoided thanks to the PCC’s guidance. This represents a total cost saving of 13,851,454 DZD, equivalent to approximately 106,550 USD, or around 17.7 USD saved per patient. Additionally, patients managed at home showed a very favorable recovery rate (97.7%).
CONCLUSIONS: The PCC contributes to significantly reducing healthcare costs by avoiding unnecessary hospitalizations. These findings support strengthening the system and recognizing its strategic role in public health.
Conference/Value in Health Info
2025-11, ISPOR Europe 2025, Glasgow, Scotland
Value in Health, Volume 28, Issue S2
Code
EE401
Topic
Economic Evaluation
Disease
No Additional Disease & Conditions/Specialized Treatment Areas