Study links optimal asthma control with reduced health-care costs

In a study of 736 asthma patients in Singapore, good asthma control resulted in a saving of S$65 (US$48) per physician visit. Compared with an average cost of S$214 (US$158) per visit, this reduction represents a cost saving of 30% versus suboptimally controlled asthma.

The savings from achieving asthma control for obese patients were greater than for normal-weight patients. The study also found that higher spending on asthma drugs comes with net savings in total asthma costs.

"This provides a strong economic case for all parties involved (patients, physicians, payers and policymakers) to improve asthma control for asthma patients," wrote the authors of the Respirology study.