Evaluating the Economic Impact of Diabetes Mellitus: A Hospital-Centric Cost Analysis in Hail, Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic non-communicable disease (NCD) that imposes a significant economic burden on healthcare systems and households. This study aimed to estimate the direct medical costs associated with diabetes care from a hospital perspective in Hail, Saudi Arabia.

METHODS

A retrospective, hospital-based study was conducted using data from hospital records of diabetic patients treated at King Khalid Hospital (KKH) and King Salman Specialized Hospital (KSSH) in Hail. The study employed a top-down approach to estimate direct medical costs, including consultation, lab tests, medications, admissions, and annual check-ups. Costs were adjusted to US dollars (1 USD = 3.75 SAR). Ethical approval was obtained from the Hail Health Cluster (IRB Log Number: 2023-44).

RESULTS

A total of 377 diabetic patients were included in the study. The mean age was 58.02 years (SD = 18.80), with 53.3% male and 46.7% female patients. The average total annual cost per patient was US$6689.1 (±3450.1), with admission costs being the highest contributor (US$2686.0 ± 3373.0). The total estimated cost for all patients combined was approximately US$2.52 million. Older age, female gender, DM complications, and treatment at KSSH were significantly associated with higher direct costs.

CONCLUSION

The economic burden of diabetes is substantial and continues to rise annually. Policymakers should prioritize cost-effective interventions and improve data collection across hospitals to better understand and mitigate the financial impact of diabetes.