The Cost Analysis of Uncomplicated Chickenpox Treatment in Slovakia

Background: Chickenpox is one of the most common infectious diseases globally. The aim of this work was to analyse direct and indirect costs for treatment of uncomplicated chickenpox in Slovakia in 2013 compared to 2007. Methods: Data of the infection incidence were obtained from the Epidemiological information system of the Slovak Republic. Direct costs included costs for outpatient treatment. Indirect costs included: costs used to care for a family member under home care for children 1 to 14 years (for a parent taking care of a sick child); wage compensation (calculated from minimum wage) from an employer for an employee within the first 10 sick leave days (age group 19 to 62 years); and losses of gross domestic product during 10 days (parents of children 1 to 14; employee in the age group 19 to 62 years). Results: Approximately 18,000 cases are reported annually in Slovakia. Average direct costs per case of uncomplicated chickenpox represented EUR 12.27 which means an increase of more than 107% compared to the year 2007 (EUR 5.91). Total indirect costs reached EUR 422 per case, which is more than 20% growth compared to the year 2007 (EUR 349). Total costs reached EUR 434 per case and increased by more than 22% compared to the year 2007 (EUR 355). Conclusion: Treatment costs for chickenpox rise each year, mainly because of increasing indirect costs. Indirect costs in Slovakia represent about 97% of total costs, which is the highest proportion in comparison with other countries.