Provider cost of leptospirosis treatment at a rural hospital in Sri Lanka

Introduction: The rising number of leptospirosis patients and escalating healthcare costs strain the sustainability of free healthcare systems in developing countries like Sri Lanka, posing significant challenges to resource allocation and financial stability in these regions. Objectives: The aim of this study was, to estimate the provider cost of leptospirosis at District General Hospital (DGH) Monaragala, Sri Lanka. Methods: A hospital-based cost estimation study was conducted in DGH Monaragala using the scenario building technique, to assess the provider cost of laboratory confirmed leptospirosis patients using two standard management profiles as uncomplicated ward treated and complicated ward treated. Results: The provider cost per uncomplicated leptospirosis patient (n = 131) treated at ward per day was Rs. 5,449.39 (Rs.5993 with 10% inflation rate) and the total provider cost of an uncomplicated leptospirosis patient treated at ward for an average stay of 4 days was Rs. 21,797.54 (Rs.23,976 with 10% inflation rate) The provider cost per complicated leptospirosis patient (n = 58) treated at ward per day was Rs. 5,695.35 (Rs.6264 with 10% inflation rate) and the total provider cost per complicated leptospirosis for an average stay of 7 days was Rs. 39,867.43 (Rs.43,853 with 10% inflation). Conclusions and Recommendations: The provider cost of leptospirosis in DGH Monaragala was significantly high. Given the inherent challenges in limiting exposure, it is imperative that control efforts prioritize early detection and treatment.