The Economic Burden of Diabetes Mellitus in Kazakhstan: Systemic Gaps, Prescription Inefficiencies, and Policy Solutions for Sustainable Healthcare.

IntroductionThis study provides a comprehensive analysis of the economic burden of diabetes mellitus on Kazakhstan’s healthcare system, highlighting key cost drivers, inefficiencies, and areas requiring policy intervention.MethodsWe analyzed open-source materials and data from the National Health Center to estimate both direct medical and indirect non-medical costs associated with diabetes. The study also examined healthcare resource allocation, prescribing practices, and complications management.ResultsThe total economic burden of diabetes in Kazakhstan is approximately $939.8 million annually. Direct medical costs amount to $440.5 million, while non-medical costs exceed $499.2 million, surpassing direct expenses. Diabetes remains the most financially burdensome condition within the Outpatient Drug Provision (ODP) system, which allocates $97.6 million annually to diabetes-related therapies. However, 23.3% of these expenditures, amounting to $21.5 million, result from irrational prescribing practices. Additionally, diabetes-related complications contribute significantly to healthcare costs, with 49% of all hemodialysis patients diagnosed with diabetes and five amputations performed daily. Limited prevention strategies, delays in diagnosis, and disparities in healthcare access further exacerbate the burden, particularly in rural areas.ConclusionDiabetes mellitus presents a significant and growing economic and public health challenge in Kazakhstan. The high financial burden, coupled with inadequate preventive measures and inefficiencies in healthcare management, underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms. Enhancing early detection, optimizing treatment strategies, and improving cost-effective resource utilization are critical to mitigating complications and reducing the long-term strain on the healthcare system.