Healthcare costs of paternal depression in the postnatal period
Author Information
Author(s): Edoka Ijeoma P., Stavros Petrou, Paul G. Ramchandani
Primary Institution: University of York
Hypothesis
The study aims to estimate the healthcare costs of paternal postnatal depression.
Conclusion
Paternal depression is associated with higher community care costs during the postnatal period.
Supporting Evidence
- Fathers with depression incurred higher costs due to GP contacts and psychologist contacts.
- Fathers at high risk of developing depression also incurred higher costs compared to those without depression.
- Community care costs were significantly higher for fathers with depression compared to those without.
Takeaway
When dads feel sad after their baby is born, it can cost a lot more for their healthcare.
Methodology
Data on healthcare resource-use was collected from 192 fathers over the first 12 months postpartum, categorized into three groups based on their depression status.
Potential Biases
Recall bias may have affected self-reported healthcare service utilization.
Limitations
The small sample size may limit the ability to detect significant differences in costs.
Participant Demographics
Fathers were mainly white, with high proportions married or in full-time employment, and most had at least a degree.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.005
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 12.66 to 205.49
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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