COST-ANALYSIS OF END-STAGE RENAL-FAILURE TREATMENT AND CONSIDERATIONSABOUT USEFULNESS OF SUCH STUDIES AND THE ROLE OF NEPHROLOGIST

To assess the cost of end stage renal failure treatment was the target of studies we achieved during the last ten years. We showed how much the global cost was favourably influenced by the number of available t herapeutic methods. In a recent study, reported here, we followed a ne w methodology more often used today in our public hospitals. The compa rison of analytical accountancy data with computerized medical informa tions as given by identification of Diagnosis Related Groups probably allows better assessment of <<real cost>>. But is this approach realy useful for nephrologists? These frequently asked questions cannot be p erformed without the participation of physicians. The question remains whether or not these studies will contribute to improve the quality o f care and to allow some saving. We also hope sharing with readers of <<Nephrologie>> these kinds of considerations as well as our opinions and doubts.