ATOPIC-DERMATITIS IN CHILDREN - WHO CARES QUESTIONABLE WHO PAYS

Background. Atopic dermatitis is an important cause of morbidity in ch ildren of all ages. Despite its high prevalence, there has been no exa mination of ways in which care for atopic dermatitis is delivered. Obj ective. This study reviewed the costs for care of childhood atopic der matitis in an urban setting and estimated the national cost for treatm ent of the disease. Methods. We used data from one children's hospital to study the use of the emergency room for atopic dermatitis and used national data sets to estimate the cost of care in the United States. Results. A large proportion of visits occur in the emergency departme nt, during daytime office hours, and mostly by patients who have publi c insurance. The total national cost for treatment of childhood atopic dermatitis is $364 million annually, which is a conservative estimate . Conclusion: Given its high prevalence, associated morbidity, and cos t, resources must be better allocated to improve the organization of c are for patients with atopic dermatitis.