Impact and Associations of Atopic Dermatitis Out-of-Pocket Health Care Expenses in the United States

Abstract

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is associated with substantial financial cost, including increased out-of-pocket (OOP) expenses. Associations and impact of OOP costs are poorly understood.

Objective

The aim of the study was to characterize the impact and associations of OOP health care expenses for AD.

Methods

A 25-question online survey was administered to National Eczema Association members (N = 113,502). Inclusion criteria (US residents aged ≥18 years; self-reported AD or primary caregiver of individual with AD) were met by 77.3% (1118 of 1447).

Results

Respondents with monthly OOP expenses greater than $200 were more likely to have increased AD severity, flares, health care provider visits, prescription polypharmacy, use of step-up therapy, frequent skin infections, and poorer disease control (P < 0.005 for all). Respondents with OOP yearly expenditures greater than $1000 had similar associations and additionally increased rates of comorbid asthma, allergic rhinitis, and anxiety/depression (P < 0.005 for all). A total of 64.6% (n = 624) reported harmful household financial impact of OOP expenses. Predictors of harmful impact included severe AD (adjusted odds ratio [95% confidence interval], 2.62 [1.11–6.19], P = 0.04), comorbid asthma (1.42 [1.07–1.87], P = 0.03), 5 health care provider visits or more in a year (2.80 [1.62–4.82], P = 0.0007), greater than $200 OOP monthly expenditures (2.16 [1.45–3.22], 0.0006), and $1000 annual OOP expenditures or more (4.56 [3.31–6.27], P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Out-of-pocket expenses for AD significantly impact household finances. Clinical interventions are needed to minimize OOP expenses while optimizing care outcomes.

Capsule Summary:

• Atopic dermatitis (AD) is associated with significant financial cost, including increased out-of-pocket (OOP) expenses, although the impact and associations of OOP health care expenses for AD management are not well understood.

• The OOP health care expenses related to AD are associated with increased disease severity and health care utilization and significantly impact the household finances of patients and caregivers.

• Health care providers should be mindful of the OOP financial burden related to AD management and engage in shared decision making to create a treatment plan that is practical and effective and minimizes household financial impact.