Socioeconomic challenges of chronic suppurative otitis media management in state tertiary health facility in Nigeria

Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) is a serious health care concern worldwide due to its substantial financial and non-financial burden. The aim was to determine the socio-economic challenges of CSOM in developing economy.MethodsIt is a nine month prospective study of all patients with a diagnosis of CSOM seen at Kogi State Specialist Hospital in north-central Nigeria. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect relevant information from patients/caregiver after an informed consent and ethical clearance obtained from relevant authorities. Information retrieved included socio-demographic data, site and duration of discharge, the financial cost of various stages of treatment and follow up.ResultEighty-two new patients were seen during the study period aged 2–56 years with a mean age was 8.84 years, male:female ratio of 2.2:1. About 84.1% of the patients were from within the town. The average cost of consultation per visit was 150 NGN (US$1.00). The recorded cost of outpatient medical management with basic investigation was about 14,550.00 NGN (US$97) while those requiring rehabilitation was 85,100 NGN (US$567.3). The average cost of medication and ear dressing was 2475.00 ± 82.6 NGN (US$17) and 750 NGN (US$5) respectively. None was operated.ConclusionThe socioeconomic cost of CSOM is still very high both financially and non-financially. Children are at the receiving end, there is a need for capacity building to reduce the cost burden and out of pocket expenses through health insurance scheme will go a long way.