Epidemiological aspects and cost of managing hypertension in Saudi Arabian primary health care centres

The main epidemiological features and the direct cost of management of hypertension for a sample of registered patients in primary health care centres in Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia were examined. Epidemiological features were gathered through patient interviews and from medical records, while direct cost of management was obtained using a standard formula. Consultation accounted for the highest direct cost of disease management (67%); investigations and drugs were responsible for 16% and 17%, respectively. Number of visits, frequency of follow-up and use of additional drugs were significantly associated with higher total direct cost and higher cost of consultation. Medical education for physicians regarding cost containment and the complete documentation of medical treatment is advised.