Aim: To conservatively estimate the costs of coronary heart disease from the perspective of New Zealand society.
Methods: A cross sectional or prevalence analysis (cases and associated costs in one year) was undertaken of the total annual cost of coronary heart disease. Estimates were made on an incremental basis of direct, indirect and intangible costs. Costs relate to 1989 volumes measured in March quarter 1992 dollars (net of goods and services tax).
Results: Cost estimates were in all instances conservative values. Direct medical costs amounted to $179 million and indirect costs were between $14 million and $24 million. Loss of life using the human capital approach ranged from $114 million to $264 million, but using the willingness to pay criteria, loss of life was $14,568 million.
Conclusion: Because of the magnitude of the costs of coronary heart disease even small reductions in the incidence of coronary heart disease will produce substantial savings to society.