Abstract

Increasing health expenditure requires clinical leaders to have a functional understanding of health economics and its implications on the provisions of healthcare services. The subsequent health related illnesses associated with tobacco use, contribute to considerable economic burden to the health care system. Epidemiological analysis of tobacco use, suggests that it will become the leading cause of death in developed countries. The relative impact smoking has on the healthcare systems has been proffered to negate the burden of cost on health services secondary to reduced lifespans. Investing in chronic disease management programs such as pulmonary rehabilitation may reduce the impact of exacerbations of respiratory diseases on the individuals functioning, and alleviate some of the burden on acute care systems.