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Rheumatoid Arthritis Cost in Australia

Lifetime risk: 1 in 66 men, 1 in 43 women Australians will be diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Cost Breakdown

Annual Cost
$14,170/year
Treatment Costs
  • Annual OOP costs$81-$34,000
  • Median per-person expenditure$14,170

Source: Zurich Cost of Care Volume 2. Costs are averages and may vary based on individual circumstances.

Risk Statistics

Lifetime Risk
1 in 66 men, 1 in 43 women
Current Cases in Australia
456k
Key Statistics
  • Comorbidities: Back problems (36%), mental disorders (33%), heart disease (22%)
  • Work Disability: 32% stop working at 5 years after disease onset
  • Female Prevalence: 1.5 times higher in females
  • Heart Attack Risk: 60% increase one year after diagnosis

Source: Zurich Cost of Care Volume 2. Statistics represent Australian population averages.

Financial Impact

Out of pocket costs can be as high as $34,000 per year. Women spend significantly more than men (around $400 more per year). Work disability is common, with around 32% forced to stop working. People with RA may rely on daily assistance from carers.

Recovery Period
Chronic autoimmune condition
Average Days Off Work
38 days/year

Insurance Coverage Considerations

Income Protection

Standard Priority

People with Rheumatoid Arthritis take an average of 38 days off work per year. Income Protection provides 70% income replacement during recovery and treatment periods.

Important: The information above is based on average costs and factual data. It does not take into account your individual circumstances, needs, or financial situation.

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This is general advice only and does not take into account your individual circumstances, needs, or financial situation. You should consider the appropriateness of this general advice before acting on it. Please read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before making a decision. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed financial adviser. AR: 1244847 | AFSL: 246623

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Important Information

Cost estimates are from Zurich Cost of Care Volume 2 research and represent averages. Your actual costs may vary.

Insurance coverage recommendations are general in nature. This is general advice only and does not take into account your individual circumstances. Speak with a licensed adviser to determine appropriate coverage for your situation.

AR: 1244847 | AFSL: 246623

Source: Zurich Cost of Care Volume 2 (Released June 2024)