How much do we pay for caesarean section--a pilot study in Serbia

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Different types of labour need different resources. Subsequently, different costs should be expected. AIM: The aim of the study was to determine costs of planned Caesarean section (C-section) in relation to costs of spontaneous (SVD) and induced vaginal (IVD) delivery. METHODS: Retrospective study was conducted for the period January 1st-December 31st, 2010. Database of Health Insurance Fund of Republic of Serbia was used as a data source. Direct medical costs of labor were estimated for mother/newborn pair. RESULTS: The sample was consisted of 99 women where 46.5% had SVD, 28.3% IVD and 25.2% C-section. The average costs of labor, regardless of method, were 417.02+284.14 EUR. Costs of C-section were higher compare to SVD (640.18 +/- 240.04 vs. 243.27 +/- 131.70 EUR, p < 0.05) and IVD (640.18 +/- 240.04 vs. 497.10 +/- 327.91 EUR, p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Considering high costs of C-section, it is necessary to review such clinical practice for the purpose of optimizing the use of resources.