PP45 The Cost-Of-Illness Of Diabetic Macular Edema In Italy

Introduction Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) is an important complication of Retinopathy (DR). Intravitreal steroids in slow-release systems represent a safe and effective therapeutic option for the management DME, capable improving patients’ quality life by reducing number injections thus increasing adherence effectiveness treatment. This study aims to determine economic impact DME consequences, terms both expenditure organizational impact, associated with greater use intravitreal dexamethasone implant. Methods The analysis entailed comparison between two scenarios: first scenario based on current alternatives available Italian healthcare setting (as is) alternative assumption increased implant (to be). results are expressed resource absorption scenarios as well cost differential given their comparison. Results Despite increase acquisition costs pharmacological (EUR 898,362) interventions provided 22,093,160), prolonged-release allows significant savings professionals’ time, follow-up productivity losses incurred patient/caregiver. These reductions resulted saving EUR 1,987,678 over 5-year period. Such reduction would allow, considering total annual 6,115 dexamethasone, treat 325 more patients at same rate dexamethasone. Conclusions In context characterized need allocative efficiency resources, recourse alternatives, such prolonged release allowing pathology crucial generate value entire society.