Medical and Economic Assessment and Rationale for Improving Stroke Care

Abstract

Introduction:

Demonstration of the existing socio-economic damage from cerebrovascular diseases and evaluation of the quality and accessibility of medical care are key initial stages for justifying the feasibility of technologies and budgeting programs for inpatient care focused on outcomes, as well as determining the required volume of investments [1]. Despite the availability of information in domestic literature regarding the economic damage and accessibility of high-tech medical care, this information often appears fragmented [2]. This underscores the importance of studying global experience in implementing technologies and targeted programs within organizational models aimed at reducing the burden of cerebrovascular diseases.

Research Objective:

The aim of this study is to conduct an analytical review of evidence-based data on the assessment of socio-economic losses from stroke and to justify the effectiveness of high-tech medical care technologies and programs using domestic and international literature sources [3]. The study aims to identify the potential for improving the organizational forms of inpatient care for stroke, with the goal of optimizing their economic efficiency and increasing access to quality treatment for patients.

Methods:

The research methodology was based on a comprehensive analysis of epidemiological data on cerebrovascular diseases, as well as an assessment of the costs of providing inpatient care for stroke [4]. Statistical data from the WHO, national healthcare registries, and scientific studies evaluating the socio-economic aspects of this pathology were used. Differences in mortality, prognostic severity assessment, and outcomes of stroke were taken into account, considering national peculiarities. Special attention was paid to analyzing the clinical and economic consequences of strokes of various etiologies, assessing functional outcomes, and quality of life after stroke using modified Rankin and Barthel index scales [5].

Results:

The study revealed a high prevalence and significant socio-economic burden of stroke, confirming a trend towards its "younger" age onset and increasing frequency among the working-age population. It was found that the costs of providing medical care for stroke occupy a significant portion of healthcare budgets in various countries, with the effectiveness of thrombolysis and intensive therapy having a significant impact on reducing mortality and disability [6]. In Russia, the cost of treating one stroke patient along with subsequent indirect costs was significant, emphasizing the need for cost optimization and increased efficiency of care. Prognostic severity assessment of stroke outcomes, conducted using international scales, showed that assessments of functional status can be used for evidence-based economic calculations, which is important for forming differentiated approaches to treatment and rehabilitation of patients.

Conclusions:

Based on the analysis of the past decades, high mortality rates and hospital case fatality rates from cerebrovascular diseases in Russia require a comprehensive approach to solving the problem, including socio-economic and organizational aspects. Programmatic solutions to reducing mortality should encompass improving the accessibility and quality of high-tech medical care. The implementation of modern technologies and programs, although requiring significant investments, demonstrates significant potential for preventing stroke development and reducing the burden of disease in modern conditions [7]. The experience of Western countries, where economic benefits of investing in stroke prevention leading to widespread use of the latest technologies in hospitals are evident, should be considered in shaping domestic healthcare policies. The results of domestic clinical-epidemiological studies confirm the necessity and effectiveness of modern approaches to providing care for stroke patients and provide valuable data for further improving the healthcare system. The planned quality indicators for stroke patient care should serve as a benchmark for achieving a level corresponding to the best European standards.