Abstract 16583: Financial Catastrophe Resulting From Hospitalization for Acute Coronary Syndrome in Eight Countries in Asia: The Findings From EPICOR-Asia

Background: Hospitalization for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in Asia can create significant financial burden for patients as most treatment costs are borne out-of-pocket. The Long-tErm follow-uP of antithrombotIc management patterns In Acute CORonary Syndrome patients in Asia (EPICOR-Asia) study (NCT01361386) is an observational study of patients surviving hospitalization for ACS in 219 hospitals in 8 countries and regions. Objectives: Compare the costs from the perspective of patients and incidence of financial catastrophe from hospitalization for ACS in Asia in patients with, and without, health insurance. Methods: Ongoing observational cohort study of patients (n=9,373) surviving hospitalization for ACS up to 3 months, provided income data and followed up for a maximum of 24 months. Data were collected on demographics, socioeconomic and insurance status, treatment and costs reported in US dollars. Financial catastrophe was assessed as cost of initial hospitalization >30% of annual baseline household income. Results: Average out-of-pocket costs was $3,237, which represents 54% of the average total cost of treatment ($6,001). Financial catastrophe was reported in 56% of patients; 66% of those without insurance vs. 52% from those with (p Conclusions: Large variation across countries and regions in rates of financial catastrophe result from hospitalization for ACS in Asia. Health insurance offers some protection, lowering the out of pocket burden incurred by patients, but is associated with higher total treatment costs for the health sector.