Chronic non-cancer pain and its association with healthcare use and costs among individuals with obstructive sleep apnea.

Aim:To evaluate the impact of chronic non-cancer pain (CNCP) on healthcare use and costs among individuals diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).Materials & methods:Using the IQVIA PharMetrics(R)Plus database, we identified individuals (18-64 years old) during 2007-2014, divided into two groups: OSA + CNCP versus OSA-only. Generalized linear models were used to analyze binary and count outcomes.Results:Relative to OSA-only controls, OSA + CNCP cases had increased odds for inpatient and emergency department visits and higher rates for physician office visits, non-physician outpatient visits, and prescription drug fills. Relative to controls, direct healthcare costs for cases were higher, primarily driven by inpatient and non-physician outpatient visit costs.Conclusion:Relative to OSA-only controls, OSA + CNCP cases displayed increased healthcare use and costs across all points of service.