A longitudinal study to assess the frequency and cost of antivascular endothelial therapy, and inequalities in access, in England between 2005 and 2015.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

High-cost antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) medicines for eye disorders challenge ophthalmologists and policymakers to provide fair access for patients while minimising costs. We describe the growth in the use and costs of these medicines and measure inequalities in access.

Design

Longitudinal study using Hospital Episode Statistics (2005/2006 to 2014/2015) and hospital prescribing cost reports (2008/2009 to 2015/2016). We used Poisson regression to estimate standardised rates and explore temporal and geographical variations.

Setting

National Health Service (NHS) care in England.

Population

Patients receiving anti-VEGF injections for age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular oedema and other eye disorders.

Interventions</

SUBMITTER: Hollingworth W 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5665286 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature