Economic Burden of Sickle Cell Disease at Tertiary Health Facilities in Tanzania: Financial Impact on Patients at Muhimbili National Hospital

Background: Sickle cell disease (SCD) affects thousands in Tanzania, causing high healthcare costs and economic burden. This study estimates the annual cost of SCD care for patients at Muhimbili National Hospital. Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2021 to May 2022 at Muhimbili National Hospital, Tanzania. A systematic sampling method was used to select 207 patients. Data were collected through structured interviews. Direct cost was also obtained from individual perspective and indirect costs were assessed using the Human Capital Method. Finally, data processing was done in Microsoft Excel, and analysis was performed using SPSS20. Results: A total of 207 patients participated, with 91.3% under 18. The average annual cost of SCD care was TZS 847,186.01 (USD 367.62), with direct costs accounting for 76.4%. Medications, tests, and consultations were the major contributors to these costs (48%), and health insurance reduced costs by 64.4%. Conclusion: SCD in Tanzania creates a significant financial burden, primarily due to direct medical costs, along with indirect costs like lost productivity. Addressing this requires better health insurance access, reduced indirect costs, and improved healthcare infrastructure.