OBJECTIVES

The financial burden of ABC treatment is recognized, however the level of OPE incurred, outside insurance coverage, is less well documented. The research aimed to provide an overview of patients’ monthly OPE directly related to ABC, developing a comprehensive view of the cost of ABC.

METHODS

: Data were gathered using Adelphi’s Disease-Specific Programme in the US (Apr-Jul 2017). 169 ABC patients completed a point-in-time questionnaire regarding monthly OPE incurred whilst receiving ABC treatment (excluding treatment costs) and time spent attending treatments and consultations. Summary statistics are reported.

RESULTS

: Of 169 patients, 28% of patients were employed (full or part-time). The most commonly reported insurance types covering ABC care were Medicare (48%) and employer-funded private insurance (31%). Mean monthly OPE reported were conv$ $158, alt$ $102 and other$ $144. Notable differences were seen in monthly OPE between employed and non-employed patients: conv$ $180 vs. $150, alt$ $197 vs. $49, other$ $283 vs. $87.

Mean travel times of 31 and 32 minutes to ABC consultations and treatments respectively were reported. 32% of patients were accompanied to consultations, 27% to treatments. 50% of those who accompanied patients to consultations were employed compared to 54% of those accompanying patients to treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

: Most patients report some monthly OPE as a direct result of ABC; the nature and level of spend varies by employment status but not by insurance status. Additionally indirect costs related to time-spent are observed. Further investigation is needed to comprehensively understand costs.