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

M. Al-Shahri*, A. M.A. Mandil, A. G. Elzubier, M. Hanif

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

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.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)493-501
Number of pages9
JournalEastern Mediterranean Health Journal
Volume4
Issue number3
Publication statusPublished - 1998
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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