From Wong, et al. “Estimating Future Hepatitis C Morbidity, Mortality, and Costs in the United States” Am. Journ. of Pub. Health. Oct 2000 90(10) 1592-1569:
“When only direct medical costs were considered, our model predicted that the cost to treat future HCV-related disease would range from $6.5 to $13.6 billion for the years 2010 through 2019. Our projections for hepatitis C likely underestimated the long-term costs … In addition to direct medical costs, our analysis suggested that the societal burden of indirect or time costs related to premature mortality or disability from decompensated cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma may add another $54.2 and $21.3 billion, respectively, in lost productivity, both of which exceed the $10.3 billion baseline direct medical costs of hepatitis C.
Our results suggested that despite the remarkable decline in the incidence of hepatitis C, mortality related to existing cases of hepatitis C in 1991 will likely continue to increase over the next 10 to 20 years, and our results confirmed that hepatitis C may be an awakening giant. Although screening tests and treatments are available, waiting times for new patient appointments to see a hepatologist for evaluation of hepatitis C in some parts of the United States have increased to several months, emphasizing the need to train clinicians in the management of hepatitis C. There is some urgency for action because hepatitis C is frequently asymptomatic until cirrhosis develops, at which time treatment is less effective. Once hepatic decompensation occurs, treatment is limited by the shortage of donor transplant organs. Additional research regarding the cost-effectiveness of screening for hepatitis C and indications for treatment should be pursued to help formulate public health policy in this area. Continued research on the natural history of hepatitis C and the development of new treatments should remain priorities for the nation’s health.”
Based on the above estimates, HCV will have a medical cost of around $1 billion per year, and a societal cost through disability and lost productivity of an additional $7 billion.