Work

The cost of heart failure in Australia: a linked primary and secondary care analysis

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Heart failure (HF) places a substantial and rising burden on Australia's health system. Existing cost estimates are outdated and based on modelling rather than real-world data. This study provides an updated estimate using linked healthcare records. METHODS: This study used linked general practice, hospital, emergency, and mortality data from Western Australia. Individuals with HF were matched 1:1 to controls on age, sex, diabetes, and ischaemic heart disease. Direct healthcare costs for 2021 were calculated from the government payer perspective and expressed in 2024 AUD. Attributable costs were estimated using matched comparisons and regression modelling. RESULTS: The mean attributable cost to heart failure was $10,878 per person-year. Hospitalisations accounted for 79% of total costs. Costs were higher in those with comorbidities and during the first two years post-diagnosis. Nationally, total direct HF costs were estimated at approximately $6.3-6.6 billion per year. CONCLUSION: HF places a substantial and preventable strain on the healthcare system, with hospitalisations the main cost driver. Scaling up evidence-based ambulatory models, such as nurse-led care, virtual wards, and remote monitoring, offers a high-value opportunity to improve outcomes and reduce unnecessary admission. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.

Source: BMC Health Services Research

DOI: 10.1186/s12913-026-14471-9