Cost-Effectiveness of Clozapine for Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenic Patients
Abstract
Clozapine therapy for treatment-resistant schizophrenic patients resulted in decreases in psychopathology and reductions in mental health service costs. The majority of these savings were due to reduced use of inpatient hospital services. Reduction of the need for hospital services improves the quality of life of this group of chronic patients, as long as necessary aftercare services are available.
An additional advantage of clozapine is the increased clinical contact that results from frequent monitoring for possible hematologic effects. This contact may contribute to a more appropriate level of care for schizophrenic patients in a community setting. Although community service costs for these patients might increase, improved quality of care and early intervention in the event of an acute schizophrenic episode may result in improved patient functioning and decreased total costs.
Economic benefits were observed after two years of clozapine therapy. If these findings are generalizable beyond two years, clozapine may result in large savings to state and federal government institutions and insurers, as well as considerable clinical benefits to patients.
Access content
To read the fulltext, please use one of the options below to sign in or purchase access.- Personal login
- Institutional Login
- Sign in via OpenAthens
- Register for access
-
Please login/register if you wish to pair your device and check access availability.
Not a subscriber?
PsychiatryOnline subscription options offer access to the DSM-5 library, books, journals, CME, and patient resources. This all-in-one virtual library provides psychiatrists and mental health professionals with key resources for diagnosis, treatment, research, and professional development.
Need more help? PsychiatryOnline Customer Service may be reached by emailing [email protected] or by calling 800-368-5777 (in the U.S.) or 703-907-7322 (outside the U.S.).