Disability and dependency care studies highlight funding gaps and health benefits

A study by the Institute for Health Sciences Research at the Universidad Nacional del Sud reveals a significant gap between official reimbursement rates and the actual operating costs of day centers for people with disabilities in Argentina. Analyzing data from 2018 to 2025, researchers found that the gap reaches 60% for full-day service centers and up to 86% for other facilities. This financial discrepancy was cited as a reason for the closure of the Inbare Institute.

In Spain, a separate study evaluating the System for Autonomy and Care for Dependency (SAAD) between 2004 and 2022 indicates that dependency care services significantly improve survival rates and mental health. The research shows that receiving benefits increases survival probability by up to 3 percentage points and reduces depressive symptoms. Furthermore, the cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained is estimated at approximately 6,187 to 9,228 euros, which remains well below the 30,000-euro reference threshold used by the Spanish healthcare system.