In addition to the quality to life and health decrements reviewed in the previous Figures, there are significant healthcare cost consequences.  As shown in the Figure, both the direct and indirect costs of healthcare for stroke patients are substantially increased in those patients who have AFib and a stroke.  [14] [15] [16] [17]  [18]The conclusion must be that the healthcare costs for treating stroke, particularly in patients with AFib, mandate  the need to do a better job at preventing stroke, particularly in patients with AFib.

Reiffel JA. Am J Med 2013; 126: 00-00.