Economic Impact of Daily Bowel Management Regimens

In brief

This study examines the financial burden of daily bowel management regimens on families of children with chronic constipation and fecal incontinence from conditions like anorectal malformations, Hirschsprung disease, and spina bifida. The analysis focuses on out-of-pocket costs for over-the-counter laxatives and enemas not covered by insurance.

• Daily bowel management regimens enable patients with anorectal malformations, Hirschsprung's, and spina bifida to avoid diapers and accidents.
• Effective regimens typically require daily laxatives or enemas to maintain continence and quality of life.
• Over-the-counter bowel management products are not covered by insurance, creating significant out-of-pocket costs for families.
• Economic burden of daily regimens can impact treatment adherence and family financial stability in chronic bowel dysfunction.
• Cost analysis is essential for understanding barriers to optimal bowel management in pediatric colorectal conditions.

Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.