Estimation of Financial Burden Due to Oversupply of Medications for Chronic Diseases

Nathorn Chaiyakunapruk, Aekdisak Thanarungroj, Nonglak Cheewasithirungrueng, Warunee Srisupha-olarn, Piyarat Nimpitakpong, Piyameth Dilokthornsakul, Napawan Jeanpeerapong

Given the potential of financial burden due to oversupply of medications for chronic diseases, this study aims to determine the prevalence of oversupply and to estimate the magnitude of financial loss in Thailand. Electronic patient database in a university-affiliated hospital in Thailand was used. Based on the utilization of top 5 high drug expenditure in 2005, the prevalence and the financial loss of oversupply (medication possession ratio [MPR] >1.00) were estimated. In total, 1893 patients were included in this study. The average age was 65.2 years and the majority were female (56%). The prevalence of oversupply ranged from 23.2% to 62.8%, whereas the annual financial loss ranged from US $4108 to US $10 517. The total amount of loss was US $32 903 or 3.77% of total medication costs. In summary, because of the high prevalence and associated high financial loss, oversupply of medication is a significant financial burden on hospitals and society.