OBJECTIVES : To estimate resource implications of implementing the National Clinical Guideline on the appropriate Prescribing of Psychotropic Medication in People with Dementia. The Clinical Guideline for Appropriate Prescribing of Psychotropic Medication in People with Dementia aims to facilitate the appropriate use of psychotropic medication for non-cognitive symptoms in people with dementia; improve the safety of psychotropic medication usage for non-cognitive symptoms in people with dementia; and raise awareness regarding the risk and benefits associated with psychotropic medication for non-cognitive symptoms in people with dementia. Given the number of people living with dementia in Ireland is forecasted to rise from 55,266 in 2018 to 157,883 in 2046 (O’Shea et al., 2015), ensuring appropriate prescribing is imperative.

METHODS : A Budget Impact Analysis is conducted to estimate the resource impact of implementing the national clinical guideline for Appropriate Prescribing of Psychotropic Medication in People with Dementia.

RESULTS : Four key categories of additional resources were included: Staff Training Costs (national trainers, staff attending training and an online education programme); Direct Implementation Costs (National project implementation officer for 3 years); Auditing Costs and ‘New Practice’ Costs (time resource for comprehensive assessment, and decision-making meetings). The total cost over a 5-year cycle is €5.4m. If we match the UK reduction in the prescribing of antipsychotic medications of 48.42% upon implementation, we estimate a cost avoidance of €20m over 5 years from reduced medication costs and reduced health and social care costs related to psychotropic medication adverse events. Expected net cost avoided is €12.4 million.

CONCLUSIONS : Despite scant evidence, a reduction in healthcare costs in anticipated following a reduction in the rates of prescribing psychotropic medications from guideline implementation. While investment is initially required to implement the guideline, it is anticipated that this will be offset by the reduction in healthcare costs post implementation.