Out-of-pocket expenditure in dermatophytosis: a prospective observational study from a tertiary care center in India.

OBJECTIVES

Superficial dermatophytosis (tinea) has emerged as a chronic, relapsing public health problem in India, leading to repeated healthcare visits and increasing out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE). This study aimed to estimate the magnitude and pattern of OOPE among patients with dermatophytosis attending a tertiary care hospital and identify major contributors to overall expenditure.

METHODS

This prospective observational study included 102 patients with clinically and mycologically confirmed dermatophytosis. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire capturing demographic, socioeconomic, and disease-related variables. Costs related to medications, diagnostics, travel, food, lodging, and hospital-user fees were recorded at baseline and at first and second month follow-up. Expenditures were calculated in Indian rupees (₹) and converted to US dollars ($).

RESULTS

The mean OOPE during the first month was ₹3492 ± 6112 ($38.9 ± 68.0), ranging from ₹100 to ₹9100. Medicines constituted the largest share (₹1899.6 ± 2893.6), followed by travel costs (₹824.8 ± 841.6). Other components contributed minimally. In the second month, mean OOPE declined to ₹2340.8 ± 1013.8 ($26.0 ± 11.3). The average monthly household income was ₹42 720.5, with first-month OOPE accounting for ∼8%-10%.

CONCLUSION

Dermatophytosis imposes a substantial financial burden, mainly due to medication and travel costs. Improving affordable antifungal access and public health programs may reduce OOPE.