The Economics of Musculoskeletal Medicine

Abstract

I have already referred to the costs of musculoskeletal medicine to patients — or rather the costs of their having a problem in this area. Within the National Health Service (NHS) these costs are prescription charges and loss of earnings. Outside the NHS, in addition to loss of earnings, they involve the full cost of all drugs, plus fees paid to bone setters, physiotherapists, osteopaths, chiropractors, herbalists, acupuncturists, and the few doctors of varying persuasions who have chosen to work outside the NHS. Fees vary widely, but may be substantial, at times quite high. Some of these costs may be recoverable from private health insurance sources, in which case patients have already paid their whack! Some sufferers will be persuaded to purchase specially designed beds, pillows, and chairs (some of dubious efficacy), in addition to the basic costs outlined. These may add up to considerable sums — and a leaking water bed may ruin the ceiling of the room below!