According to a study, the value of medical treatment can be far greater than the cost of the treatment. The study can be found in BioMed Central's open access journal Cost Effectiveness and Resource Allocation. Improved physical function leads to measurable gains in employment, improved household income, and fewer days missed from work. This improvement in employment is matched by a reduction in the necessity of disability benefits.
Analysis of data from the National Health Interview Survey (2004-2010), involving 185,000 adults, showed that severity of physical activity limitations such as walking, sitting, standing, climbing, and carrying objects was linked to reduced employment, household income, missed work days, and increased likelihood of receiving disability benefits.
Computer Related Injuries
Computer- related injury (CRI) is a cluster of work-related symptoms in computer users such as Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI), Work Related Upper Limb Disorder (WRULD), and Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD)
On the positive side, for every single point increase of Physical Function Index Value there was a 2% increase in chances of being employed, a 2% decrease in receiving disability benefits, and a $180 increase in annual income.
High Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders in NZ
New Zealand's health and welfare system is spending more than $5.5 billion every year due to a high number of people suffering from musculoskeletal disorders.
Tim Dall who led this study explains, "We're breaking new ground in being able to quantify the indirect value of common bone and joint procedures. It is important that policymakers and tax payers, as well as affected individuals, are aware of how the costs of surgery balances against loss of employment and the need for long-term assistance in everyday living. This information on the indirect economic impact of treatment and the patient's quality of life combined with direct medical costs is needed to fully understand the net value of treatment."
Source: Eurekalert
Staying in Work Cures Your Back Pain
People who suffer from arthritis and back pain can heave a sigh of relief now as experts say that staying in work would not only help them recover fast but also cure them from back pain.
Recommended Reading
Latest General Health News
