Long-term costs of diabetic macular edema significantly exceed those of diabetes alone

Patients with diabetic macular edema (DME) face significantly higher long-term economic burdens compared to those with diabetes mellitus (DM) without DME, according to a study. This increased financial strain is due to higher treatment costs, more frequent healthcare visits, and greater out-of-pocket expenses.

Using data from 1.9 million patients, the study analyzed costs over 3 years and found that patients with DME had 2.09 times higher total costs than those with only DM. Reimbursement, non-reimbursement, and out-of-pocket expenses, as well as insurance-covered costs, were also notably higher in patients with DME. Additionally, the frequency of outpatient and inpatient visits was significantly greater for these patients.

The findings emphasize the need for better strategies to reduce the financial strain on patients with DME. Suggestions include expanding reimbursement policies for anti-VEGF treatments, promoting early diagnosis through proactive eye exams, and leveraging artificial intelligence to assist in early detection.

Reference
Choi K, Park SJ, Yoon H, et al. Patient-Centered Economic Burden of Diabetic Macular Edema: Retrospective Cohort Study. JMIR Public Health Surveill. 2024;10:e56741. doi: 10.2196/56741. PMID: 39378098.