Economic Impact of the Implementation of a PCDT for Cow Protein Allergy – CMPA in the State of Rio Grande do Norte

Resumo

Introduction: Cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA) is one of the most common food aller
gies in childhood, affecting children under 3 years old. In Brazil, prevalence ranges
from 1% to 5.4%, with a significant impact on the Unified Health System (SUS) due
to the high costs of special formulas used in treatment. The implementation of Clinical
Protocols and Therapeutic Guidelines (CPTG) has proven to be an efficient strategy for
managing CMPA. Objective: To report the experiences of the state of Rio Grande do Norte
in implementing the CPTG for CMPA and to analyze the economic impact associated
with providing special formulas. Methods: This descriptive study was based on data
from government reports and scientific literature from 2019 to 2023. Costs related to the
provision of special formulas and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on demand were
evaluated. The analysis included historical trends in care and inflation-adjusted econo
mic calculations. Results: From 2019 to 2023, there was an increase in the demand
for special formulas and associated costs, driven by the pandemic and price volatility.
However, administrative strategies reduced costs related to judicial demands by up to
50%. In 2023, 595 patients were enrolled in state programs, with significant growth in
coverage and treatment access. Conclusion: The implementation of public policies such
as CPTGs for CMPA in the Rio Grande do Norte proved cost-effective, expanding access
and optimizing public spending. Investments in early diagnosis and efficient administra
tive management are essential to improve clinical and economic outcomes.