title: HIV-1 and HCV viral load cost models for bDNA: 440 Molecular System versus real-time PCR AmpliPrep/TaqMan test.
abstract: Comparative cost models were developed to assess cost-per-reportable result and annual costs for HIV-1 and HCV bDNA and AmpliPrep/TaqMan Test (PCR). Model cost components included kit, disposables, platform and related equipment, equipment service plan, equipment maintenance, equipment footprint, waste and labor. Model assessment was most cost-effective when run by bDNA with 36 or more clinical samples and PCR with 30 or fewer clinical samples. Lower costs are attained with maximum samples (84-168) run daily. Highest cost contributors include kit, platform and PCR proprietary disposables. Understanding component costs and the most economic use of HIV-1 and HCV viral load will aid in attaining lowest costs through selection of the appropriate assay and effective negotiations.
authors.affiliation: Professional Habitat Design, LLC; Health Management Institute, Inc, c/o 584 Castro Street #349, San Francisco, CA 94114, USA. t.elbeik@phdllc.net
authors.forename: Tarek
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Elbeik
authors.forename: Ralph
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Dalessandro
authors.forename: Richard A
authors.initials: RA
authors.lastname: Loftus
authors.forename: Scott
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Beringer
mesh_terms: D021121:Branched DNA Signal Amplification Assay / Q000191:economics / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D003365:Costs and Cost Analysis; D004279:DNA, Viral / Q000032:analysis*; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D015497:HIV-1 / Q000235:genetics*; D016174:Hepacivirus / Q000235:genetics*; D006526:Hepatitis C / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D012367:RNA, Viral / Q000032:analysis*; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D020133:Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction / Q000191:economics / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D019562:Viral Load
chemical_list: D004279:DNA, Viral; D012367:RNA, Viral