Economic Burden

The 2012 Institute of Medicine Report about Pain in America, reveals that more than 100 million Americans are in pain with a annual price tag more than 65 billion dollars.  The cost of fibromyalgia to both the individual and to society is extensive. A 2007 study found that 34% of fibromyalgia patients spend between $100- $1,000 per month above their insurance to see a healthcare professional. Prominent fibromyalgia researchers and specialists estimate the costs in the U.S. between $12-14 billion each year and accounts for a loss of 1-2% of the nation’s overall productivity.

According to a 2003 published study in the Journal of Rheumatology:

• The total annual costs for fibromyalgia claimants were more than twice as high as the costs for the typical insurance beneficiary.
• The prevalence of disability among employees with fibromyalgia was twice as high as among all employees.
• For every dollar spent on fibromyalgia specific claims, employers spent approximately $50 -$100 on additional direct and indirect costs.

Additional studies show:

• Work and disability status of 1,668 FM patients reported that 25% had received disability payments. (Wolf, J Musculoskelet Pain. 1993)
• Failure to diagnose a true case of fibromyalgia has its own costs, largely in excess general practitioner visits, investigations and prescriptions. (Annemans, Arthritis & Rheumatism. March 2008.)
• Use of complementary and alternative medicine is 2 & 1/2 times higher in FM patients. (Lind, Arthritis & Rheumatism. February 2007).