Cost and cost-effectiveness of treatments for rheumatic heart disease in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review protocol.

Objective: This review will synthesize studies on costs, the impact of these costs, and the cost-effectiveness of treatments for rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in low- and middle-income countries.

Introduction: RHD incurs high costs owing to its clinical complexity, surgical treatments, and prolonged hospital stays. Thus, the disease has a substantial economic impact on the health system, patients, and their families.