A Cost-Benefit Analysis of a Family Systems Intervention for Managing Pediatric Chronic Illness.
Despite recent increases of psychosocial programs for pediatric chronic illness, few studies have explored their economic benefits. This study investigated the costs-benefits of a family systems-based, psychosocial intervention for pediatric chronic illness (MEND: Mastering Each New Direction). A quasi-prospective study compared the 12-month pre-post direct and indirect costs of 20 families. The total cost for program was estimated to $5,320. Families incurred $15,249 less in direct and $15,627 less in indirect costs after MEND. On average, medical expenses reduced by 86% in direct and indirect costs, for a cost-benefit ratio of 0.17. Therefore, for every dollar spent on the program, families and their third payers saved approximately $5.74. Implications for healthcare policy and reimbursements are discussed.
Loma Linda University.
Brian J
BJ
Distelberg
Loma Linda University.
Natacha D
ND
Emerson
Loma Linda University.
Paul
P
Gavaza
Loma Linda University.
Daniel
D
Tapanes
Loma Linda University.
Whitney N
WN
Brown
Loma Linda University.
Huma
H
Shah
Loma Linda University.
Jacqueline
J
Williams-Reade
Loma Linda University.
Susanne
S
Montgomery
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002908:Chronic Disease / Q000191:economics*; D017281:Cost of Illness; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D005196:Family Therapy / Q000191:economics*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007348:Insurance, Health / Q000191:economics*; D007349:Insurance, Health, Reimbursement / Q000191:economics; D008297:Male; D011446:Prospective Studies