The direct medical cost of operatively managing forearm fractures at Port Moresby General Hospital, Papua New Guinea: a retrospective cost-of-illness study

Introduction Forearm fractures are common and account for 31% of all orthopaedic admissions to Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH). As such, the primary aim of this study was to calculate the direct medical cost of operatively managing forearm fractures at PMGH. Methods A retrospective cost-of-illness study was carried out over a 6-month period involving 43 patients with forearm fractures at PMGH. Direct medical costs were calculated using a bottom-up approach to estimate expenses from both patient and hospital perspectives. Results The total direct medical cost over 6 months was K972,384.60 (US$238,569.24), and on average, the direct medical cost was K22,613.60 (US$5548.12) per patient (s.d. = 274.32). Salaries accounted for 87% of hospital costs. Hospital costs represented 99.1% of the total direct medical cost in this study. Conclusions This study underscores the substantial economic burden of operatively managing forearm fractures at PMGH. The study findings highlight the need for policy reforms aimed at improving cost-efficiency, strengthening patient financial protection, and enhancing the sustainability of trauma care services.