Impact of delays in diagnosis on healthcare costs associated with blastomycosis, coccidioidomycosis, and histoplasmosis in a commercially insured population

Among patients with blastomycosis (n=281), coccidioidomycosis (n=1,920), and histoplasmosis (n=2,180), 62% experienced diagnostic delays (mean 29 days). Patients who experienced delays incurred average excess healthcare costs of up to $15,648 (95% confidence interval: $8,600–$22,695) compared to those without a delay. Earlier diagnosis may help reduce excess costs.