Cost Study of Cardiovascular Disease Prevention in Family Practices
Author Information
Author(s): de Bekker-Grob Esther W, van Dulmen Sandra, van den Berg Matthijs, Verheij Robert A, Slobbe Laurentius CJ
Primary Institution: Erasmus MC - University Medical Centre Rotterdam
Hypothesis
What are the costs associated with cardiovascular primary preventive activities in Dutch family practices?
Conclusion
The costs of cardiovascular primary preventive activities are relatively low compared to the costs of prescribed preventive cardiovascular medication, with significant variation in prescribing behavior among family practices.
Supporting Evidence
- Total expenditure on cardiovascular primary preventive activities in FPs in 2009 was €38.8 million.
- 47% of spending was on blood pressure measurements.
- 15% of all cardiovascular medication prescribed was for primary prevention.
Takeaway
This study looked at how much money family doctors in the Netherlands spend on preventing heart problems. They found that while they spend a little on prevention, they spend a lot more on medicine.
Methodology
A mixed methods design including a questionnaire, video recordings of consultations, and analysis of a national database.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reported data and variations in recording practices among family practices.
Limitations
The study may not account for all relevant preventive activities and relies on self-reported data from questionnaires.
Participant Demographics
The study involved family practices across the Netherlands, with a focus on general practitioners, health care assistants, and practice nurses.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website