Bipolar disorders in Australia: A population-based study of excess costs

Objective: To estimate the excess costs associated with bipolar disorders in Australia, based on prevalence (using the Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ)) and associated excess burden-of-illness costs. Methods: Using data from the 2004 South Australian Health Omnibus Survey (HOS), a weighted cross-sectional survey of 3,015 adults, excess costs were estimated from health service utilisation. Results: There was a 2.5% lifetime prevalence of bipolar disorders, delineated by the MDQ. Those persons (MDQ positive) reported a significantly greater use of services and a poorer health status and quality of life than those who were MDQ negative. Using the service provision perspective, excess costs of bipolar disorders in Australia were approx $3.97-$4.95 billion. Conclusions: These results from an Australian population demonstrate the significant economic burden of bipolar disorders. Our findings emphasise the need for further evaluation of the cost-effectiveness of different treatments, or alternative means of reducing the burden borne by individuals, the health system and the general community.