Cost of Out-Patient Stroke Management in Selected Physiotherapy Departments in Kano Metropolis and its Influence on Appointment Adherence

Abstract

Affordable cost of stroke care may lead to significant savings and an increase in the effective use of health care resources including adherence to  treatment appointments. This study investigated the cost of out-patient stroke management in two selected physiotherapy departments in Kano  metropolis and its influence on Appointment Adherence (AAD). The method employed in the study consisted of: Cross sectional survey design which  was used in the study where 100 participants with stroke were recruited. The ability to perform basic activities of daily living function was  assessed with Barthel index, the cost of stroke care and AAD were assessed with a researcher designed questionnaire. The data obtained were  summarised with descriptive statistics and analysed with Pearson’s correlation and Chi-square at significance alpha level of 0.05. The Results  obtained were: The study participants consist of 47(47%) males and 53 (53%) females with mean age of 57.19±14.0 years. Forty one (41%) were self-  employed and 10 (10%) were civil servants. The average monthly direct and indirect cost of outpatient stroke management (direct and indirect cost  combined) per patient was ₦4726 ($30.34) and the average direct monthly cost of physiotherapy per patient was ₦1240, ($7.96). Barthel scores are  significantly associated with AAD (X²= 40.2; P=0.000). In conclusion, the cost of outpatient stroke care in Kano metropolis is low and affordable. This  has promoted accessibility and adherence to physiotherapy appointments among stroke survivors.