Research & Publications
Real-World Treatment Patterns, Healthcare Resource Utilization, and Costs in a U.S. Medicare Population With Bronchiectasis
Summary
Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung disease marked by frequent lung infections and worsening symptoms called exacerbations. This study reviewed health care visits and associated costs for over 92,000 older adults in the U.S. Medicare program diagnosed with bronchiectasis. Researchers compared this group to a matched control group without the disease.
Patients with bronchiectasis had significantly more doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency room visits related to respiratory issues than those without bronchiectasis. Health care costs were also higher for those with bronchiectasis, averaging $10,224 annually compared to $6,704 for those without the disease.
Costs and resource use increased further among patients experiencing multiple exacerbations. Patients with two or more exacerbations had higher health care expenses ($14,790 annually) compared to those with fewer or no exacerbations. Antibiotics were commonly prescribed, particularly among patients with frequent exacerbations.
Why This Matters
Bronchiectasis significantly increases health care visits and expenses, particularly for patients who frequently experience disease flare-ups. Currently, treatments vary widely, highlighting a need for standardized, evidence-based guidelines. Improving the management of bronchiectasis could reduce exacerbations, lower costs, and enhance patient outcomes.
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