Which of the following best describes intangible costs?

• A. Pain and suffering or QoL impacts not easily monetized.
• B. Hospital costs.
• C. Pharmacy costs.
• D. Transportation costs.

Answer: (B)

Intangible costs refer to pain, suffering, or quality-of-life impacts that are not easily monetized. These reflect the burden a person feels that doesn’t show up as a direct dollar amount in bills or receipts, yet still affects overall welfare. In economic evaluations, direct medical costs like hospital stays, medications, and non-medical costs like transportation are tangible and can be measured in dollars. The option describing pain and suffering or quality-of-life changes captures the essence of intangible costs, which are about the subjective burden rather than a billable expense.