The burden of cost in inflammatory bowel disease: a medical economic perspective. Issue 4 (July 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Beard, Jonathan A.; Click, Benjamin H.
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in gastroenterology. Volume 36:Issue 4(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-07
• Subjects: biologics -- cost -- inflammatory bowel disease -- patient-centered medical home -- quality -- specialty medical home -- value-based care; Gastroenterology -- Periodicals; 616.33
• DOI: 10.1097/MOG.0000000000000642
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0267-1379

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose of review: The cost of care for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has nearly doubled over the last two decades. With evolving treatment paradigms utilizing costly but efficacious biologic agents earlier and more often, the cost burden is only expected to worsen. The purpose of this review is to explore the current economic landscape and drivers of IBD healthcare costs along with potential mechanisms for improving value and cost-effectiveness of IBD care. Recent findings: The prevalence of IBD continues to rapidly expand with costs following suit. As compensation models change, the medical community is more incentivized than ever to develop cost reduction strategies including incorporation of high-value care measures, cooperative data aggregation, and technological solutions, with many of these interventions demonstrating promising results. Summary: IBD is an expensive chronic disease with payments only expected to rise. In light of this financial conundrum, new practice models, such as the IBD specialty medical home and remote telemedicine, are being tested with an emphasis on cost reduction. Many of these strategies are demonstrating improved patient outcomes while also curbing expenses. These early successes set the stage for continued cooperation, collaboration, and growth in value-based management of IBD.