Balancing costs and care: a healthcare cost analysis for families of children with Down syndrome in Saudi Arabia.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

This study explores the economic burden and accessibility of healthcare services for families in Saudi Arabia managing Down syndrome (DS), emphasizing urban-rural disparities within the country's dual healthcare system.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey design was employed to collect primary data from 220 families (urban=128, rural=92) through self-administered questionnaires distributed between January and September 2024. Multiple regression analysis identified primary cost drivers, whereas service integration analysis assessed healthcare accessibility.

Results

The results indicated that the average monthly cost of Down syndrome care was SAR 4,200 (USD 1,120) for urban families and SAR 3,900 (USD 1,040) for rural families, consuming approximately 60% of t

SUBMITTER: Alanazi AS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12644096 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature