Economics of Inhaled Oxygen Use as an Acute Therapy for Cluster Headache in the United States of America

Abstract

Results from our study showed that the current costs for oxygen use as an acute therapy in CH are not prohibitively expensive for patients and healthcare insurance providers. Apart from CMS, many insurers do reimburse the cost of oxygen use for CH. Our study suggests that further research is needed to determine if a lack of physician awareness about treatments and ways to prescribe are barriers for patients to access the high-flow oxygen treatment.

Survey Analysis of the Use, Effectiveness, and Patient‐Reported Tolerability of Inhaled Oxygen Compared With Injectable Sumatriptan for the Acute Treatment of Cluster Headache

“…Despite several clinical trials, surveys, and retrospective analyses demonstrating the safety and efficacy of inhaled oxygen in treating cluster attacks, barriers exist to patients in oxygen acquisition and use . Many cluster headache patients have never used oxygen – from 21.7% in this report up to 63% in others .…”

“…In contrast, inhaled oxygen is not FDA‐approved for cluster headache, but it is considered by many patients and neurologists as an effective and safe abortive therapy and can be used numerous times in a day without adverse consequences. Some patients face difficulties obtaining a prescription for oxygen, paying for it, and/or using it effectively . Challenges in acquiring appropriate medical treatment is one of the many struggles endured by patients with cluster headache, which span personal, social, and economic domains .…”

Prescribing Oxygen for Cluster Headache: A Guide for the Provider

“…The actual cash cost can often be shouldered by the patient, depending on the state. An accompanying article in this issue of headache includes a list of states and the approximate cost of oxygen for cluster patients in those states …”

“…Patients who pay cash should be strongly encouraged to buy medical oxygen. Details on the differences between nonmedical and medical grade oxygen, including costs are included in the accompanying article by O'Brien et al…”

“…If the patient has commercial insurance, almost all of them cover oxygen when prescribed correctly. Again, see the accompany article by O'Brien et al for the economic and social details . The important fact is that oxygen is relatively easily available as first‐line therapy with coverage by commercial insurance.…”