Impact of Delays in Diagnosis on Healthcare Costs Associated With Blastomycosis, Coccidioidomycosis, and Histoplasmosis in a Commercially Insured Population

Among patients with blastomycosis (n = 281), coccidioidomycosis (n = 1920), and histoplasmosis (n = 2180), 62% experienced diagnostic delays (mean 29 days). Patients who experienced delays incurred average excess healthcare costs of up to $15 648 (95% confidence interval: $8600-$22 695) compared with those without a delay. Earlier diagnosis may help reduce excess costs.