The Costs of Late Presentation of HIV Infection
Author Information
Author(s): Hartmut B. Krentz, John M. Gill
Primary Institution: Southern Alberta Clinic, University of Calgary
Hypothesis
What are the direct medical costs associated with late presentation of HIV infection over a 15-year period?
Conclusion
Late presenters incur significantly higher medical costs compared to early presenters, even after improvements in their health.
Supporting Evidence
- 59% of new patients were late presenters.
- Late presenters accounted for over 68% of all costs.
- Costs for late presenters were almost twice as high as for early presenters.
- Mean monthly costs for late presenters were $1419 compared to $914 for early presenters.
Takeaway
If someone finds out they have HIV late, it costs a lot more to help them than if they find out early. This means it's better to get tested sooner.
Methodology
The study analyzed direct medical costs for newly diagnosed HIV patients in Southern Alberta from 1995 to 2010, comparing costs between late presenters (CD4 <350/mm3) and early presenters (CD4 >350/mm3).
Potential Biases
Potential underreporting of non-HIV related physician visits by patients.
Limitations
The study only includes patients from a specific geographic area and may not be applicable to other regions or countries.
Participant Demographics
59% of new patients were late presenters; demographics shifted from 89% male in 1995 to 73% male in 2009.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website