The aim of this study was to summarise the impact of medical care and related costs due to the treatment of osteoarthritis in Germany.
Data from different health care institutions, government authorities and public health insurances for the year 2002 were analysed. Amount and cost of acute and rehabilitation treatments (in-patient as well as out-patient), sickness leave and early retirement related to osteoarthritis were estimated.
Advanced hip and knee osteoarthritis have a high socioeconomic impact in Germany. The number of people affected is growing, as is the overall incidence of joint replacement, especially knee arthroplasties and the percentage of in-patient rehabilitation for osteoarthritis.
Our study confirms that the direct and indirect costs attributable to osteoarthritis are substantial and the resulting socioeconomic burden is significant. Since age is a major risk factor for osteoarthritis, the demographic changes will lead to an increased need for medical treatment of osteoarthritis patients in the future.