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How much does intellectual disability really cost? First estimates for Australia
Doran, Christopher M. Einfeld, Stewart L. Madden, Rosamond H. Otim, Michael Ekubu Horstead, Sian K. Ellis, Louise A. Emerson, Eric
Doran, Christopher M.
Einfeld, Stewart L.
Madden, Rosamond H.
Otim, Michael Ekubu
Horstead, Sian K.
Ellis, Louise A.
Emerson, Eric
Abstract
Background: Given the paucity of relevant data, this study estimates the cost of intellectual disability (ID) to families and the government in Australia. Method: Family costs were collected via the Client Service Receipt Inventory, recording information relating to service use and personal expense as a consequence of ID. Government expenditure on the provision of support and services was estimated using top-down costing. Results: A total of 109 parents participated. The cost of ID in Australia is high, especially for families. Total economic costs of ID are close to $14,720 billion annually. Opportunity cost of lost time provided 85% of family expense. A comparison of family expense and social welfare benefits received suggests that families suffer considerable loss. This may impact on families’ physical and emotional wellbeing. Conclusions: Monitoring of changes in expenditure is required. Policies should ensure that money devoted to ID is allocated in a rational, equitable, and cost-effective manner.
Keywords
cost, intellectual disability, families
Date
2012
Type
Journal article
Journal
Journal of Intellectual and Developmental Disability
Book
Volume
37
Issue
1
Page Range
42-49
Article Number
ACU Department
Collections
Relation URI
Source URL
Event URL
Open Access Status
License
File Access
Controlled