Cost Analysis of Alopecia Areata Treatment Using Telemedicine and Standard Care at a Tertiary Care Unit

Abstract

Background: Alopecia areata is a disease caused by an abnormality in the immune system, which attacks hair follicles and leads to hair loss. This condition significantly impacts the patient's mental state, emotions, and quality of life, necessitating continuous treatment. The Institute of Dermatology, a tertiary care unit, provides telemedicine services to patients who have previously been treated at the Institute of Dermatology to enhance continuous access to care. Objective: To study the costs of telemedicine and hospital treatment for patients with alopecia areata from the perspective of service providers, focusing on the Hair and Nail Division at the Institute of Dermatology. Methods: This retrospective study utilized medical records, financial data, inventory data, and pharmaceutical information. The cost analysis of telemedicine and standard treatment methods for alopecia patients was conducted for the year 2021. Results: The total cost of the telemedicine method amounted to 84,209.09 THB, with direct costs, labor costs, capital costs, and material costs accounting for 27.21%, 47.22%, and 25.57%, respectively. The cost per unit was 1,026.94 THB per visit. In contrast, the total cost of the standard treatment method was 143,947.55 THB, with direct costs, labor costs, capital costs, and material costs accounting for 44.55%, 27.65%, and 27.80%, respectively. The cost per unit was 778.09 THB per visit. The higher average cost per patient in telemedicine was due to the lower usage volume and higher capital costs. Increasing patient volume or reducing treatment duration could potentially lower the average cost of telemedicine services. Conclusion: From the service provider's perspective, the cost per patient of telemedicine services for alopecia areata is higher compared to the standard treatment method.