assess and evaluate resouces use in outpatient treatment of CF in Germany and compare it with current reimbursement
Main results
Mean costs of 488 Euros per patient (n = 326) and quarter occurred. Remuneration (252 Euros per patient/quarter) covered only 52% of the total costs. Furthermore, a considerable time and financial burden for patients as well as decreasing quality of life with increasing age were found. Costs for medication came to 21,604 Euros per patient/year
Authors' conclusions
Human resources in German CF centers today already are below the requirements set by the European consensus for standards of CF care. It will be crucial in assuring a high level of patient care to reach a cost-covering reimbursement scheme in Germany -