High Treatment Costs Lead to Poor Adherence in Hepatic Encephalopathy Patients
A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Minnesota Medical School and College of Pharmacy has highlighted the adverse effects of high treatment costs on patient adherence in individuals with hepatic encephalopathy, a severe brain dysfunction commonly associated with end-stage liver disease. The findings of this study, published in Hepatology Communications, underscore the need for effective measures to address the financial burdens faced by patients seeking treatment for this debilitating condition.
Hepatic encephalopathy is a condition characterized by the loss of brain function in individuals suffering from severe liver illness. The disorder is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, necessitating timely and consistent therapy. Rifaximin, a commonly prescribed medication for hepatic encephalopathy, has unfortunately witnessed low treatment adherence rates.
According to Dr. Elizabeth Aby, an assistant professor at the University of Minnesota Medical School and a transplant hepatologist at M Health Fairview, the exorbitant cost of rifaximin in the United States serves as a significant barrier to patient adherence. This financial burden often prevents individuals with scarred livers, who face higher out-of-pocket costs, from filling their prescription and receiving the necessary medication. Consequently, poor outcomes such as falls, hospitalizations, and other adverse effects may arise.
To better understand the impact of financial barriers on patient adherence, the research team analyzed data from over 6,800 patients with cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy. The results indicated that younger patients with metastatic cancer or depression were less likely to adhere to their prescribed medication.
The study’s authors propose several strategies to mitigate the detrimental effects of high treatment costs. These include screening patients for financial insecurity, raising awareness among clinicians about the potential harm caused by financial barriers, involving social workers and financial assistance programs at the early stages of treatment, and advocating for measures to reduce the cost of rifaximin.
Addressing the issue of treatment affordability is crucial for improving patient outcomes and enhancing overall healthcare quality. By taking active steps to alleviate the financial burden faced by individuals with hepatic encephalopathy, healthcare professionals and policymakers can help ensure better treatment adherence, ultimately leading to reduced morbidity and enhanced well-being.
In conclusion, the study findings reinforce the need for healthcare providers and policymakers to recognize the detrimental impact of high treatment costs on patient adherence in hepatic encephalopathy cases. By addressing this issue and implementing interventions to alleviate financial burdens, the healthcare community can work towards ensuring improved treatment adherence and better outcomes for individuals affected by this debilitating condition.
