Estimated costs of treating two standardised diabetes-related foot ulcers of different severity – A comparison of 7 global regions

Abstract

Aims

To determine estimated costs to treat two hypothetical diabetes related foot ulcers of differing severity in different World Health Organization regions.

Methods

Descriptions of two standardised diabetes related foot ulcers of differing severity were sent to foot teams. Each centre was sent a picture and description of the ulcers, and a series of potential interventions. Respondents were asked to estimate how much each intervention would cost in their centre, and how many times each would be required before the ulcer would heal. These estimated costs were converted to US dollars.

Results

Responses were received from 51 centres. Estimated costs for treating each wound were highest in the North America and Caribbean region. The average estimated cost of treating the milder wound was $2,942, (range $79–$17,758). Relative costs compared to those of North America and the Caribbean ranged from 0.36 to 0.75. The average time needed to cover the estimated costs of treating the wound was 8.6 (0.3–62.3) months’ salary. The average estimated cost of treating the more severe wound was $17,403, ($546-$67,178). Relative costs ranged from 0.06 to 0.69. The average time needed to cover the estimated costs of treating the wound was 22.7 (0.2–98.3) months’ salary.

Conclusions

The estimated costs of treating ulcers vary widely across the world.