Cases of autoimmune arthritides cannot be decreased through prevention. Inefficient treatment decreases the ability to work and also social activity. Estonian Society of Rheumatology asked Praxis to analyse economic and disease burden of arthritides in Estonia.
Total cost caused by autoimmune arthritides in 2010 was €27.2 million in Estonia. Over 2/3 of the costs is related to inability to work: €4,9 million on disability benefits, diseased lost €6.3 million due to decreased ability to work and the state lost €7.3 million in taxes. The results indicate a strong need to inspect the treatment principles and to reform sickness and disability management in Estonia in order to decrease the economic and disease burden of arthritides.
See also
Eesti Haigekassa majandusaasta aruanne 2010
Riigi tegevus puuetega inimeste ja töövõimetuspensionäride toetamisel
Puuetega inimeste sotsiaaltoetuste seaduse muutmise kontseptsioon