Low back pain (LBP) is a leading cause of disability while mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are reported to be effective for LBP management when combined with medication and physical therapy. MBIs have also been shown to be cost-effective in reducing chronic pain–related healthcare expenses and productivity losses. Notably, the majority of chronic diseases, including LBP, are managed within the public healthcare system, whereas incorporating MBIs into standard LBP treatment within this system requires an understanding of patients’ willingness to pay (WTP) and preferences. The cross-sectional survey conducted in two Hong Kong public hospitals by Zhu et al. (2025) indicated that the mean WTP for an eight-session course of MBIs was HK$258.75±508.11. Higher pain scores, monthly family income >HK$30 000, high school education, higher treatment expenses, and stronger belief in MBIs were associated with greater WTP. The findings reflected that the WTP for MBIs among local patients with chronic LBP was low, and thus strategies to improve education and awareness of MBIs among patients are crucial for enhancing their WTP.

References

13. Zhu et al. Hong Kong Med J 2025; 31: 108–18.