Economic burden of Alzheimer disease and managed care considerations
Winston Wong
Abstract
Alzheimer disease (AD) is the sixth leading cause of death and the most common etiology for dementia.It causes a significant burden to the public health system, patients afflicted with it, and their caregivers.Continuing professional education will increase competency on AD, including the importance of early detection, patient and caregiver education, and the role of new therapeutic targets for the treatment of AD.Application of knowledge will improve clinical decision making, improve quality of life among patients and caregivers, optimize medication therapy, improve outcomes, and decrease costs associated with the treatment of AD. Statement of Educational NeedAlzheimer disease requires a multispecialty approach to diagnosis and treatment.The estimated cost of Alzheimer disease includes direct medical, indirect, and social care costs.Early diagnosis can improve quality of life for both patients and caregivers.Continuing education on the importance of early diagnosis, current and emerging therapies, and the societal and economic burden of Alzheimer disease will help managed care professionals provide timely and appropriate care to patients. Educational ObjectivesUpon completion of this activity, participants should be able to: Explore the impact of Alzheimer disease as it relates to progression, value of early diagnosis, associated comorbidities, and effect on patients and caregivers. Analyze current and emerging data for new therapeutic targets for the pharmacologic treatment of Alzheimer disease. Examine the importance of medication therapy management and drug utilization reviews for controlling costs and improving outcomes among patients with Alzheimer disease. Accreditation StatementPharmacy Times Continuing Education is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) as a provider of continuing pharmacy education.This activity is approved for 2.5 contact hours (0.25 CEU) under the ACPE universal activity number 0290-0000-20-207-H01-P.