Lymphedema is a frequent and chronic condition posing a high burden on patients. Clinical guidelines emphasize the role of compression therapy by prescription medical devices. Even in a mandatory publicly funded health insurance system, out-of-pocket payments (OOPP) may exist due to the price and reimbursement setting processes. OOPP may threaten the equity of care and drive patients to forgo care. Our aim was to analyze the distributive effects of OOPP for lymphedema patients in France. A prospective, multicenter study will be conducted in France in 2014 on patients with lymphedema. Household ability to pay will be specified by net income and OOPP will be assessed prospectively over 6 months for outpatient care (visits, drugs, medical devices, nursing care, biological tests, imaging, physiotherapy and transportations). Both mandatory and voluntary health insurance reimbursements will be considered. We will combine concentration curves and concentration indices to assess the distributive effects.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
260
Departement information Medicale CHU Montpellier
Montpellier, France
The mean monthly out-of-pocket payment as assessed by an online self-questionnaire
Time frame: 6 months
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.