CLINICAL ECONOMICS AND SLEEP DISORDERS

Sleep disorders have been shown to have substantial psychosocial seque lae with large economic impact. Numerous studies have examined the psy chosocial aspects of sleep disorders; however, there has been little p ublished on the associated economic implications. With increasing pres sure to contain health care expenditures and provide value for the dol lar, clinical economics is playing an important role in the decision-m aking process about alternative strategies within health care organiza tions. There are several strategies one may pursue to examine the econ omics of medical interventions. The predominant strategies include: co st identification, cost effectiveness, cost utility, and cost benefit. This review provides a basis for performing clinical economic evaluat ions in sleep disorders.