Cost Effectiveness
Articles tagged with Cost Effectiveness
Renewable energy is more cost effective than direct air capture at reducing carbon, new study finds
A new study published in Communications Sustainability reveals that investing in renewable energy yields more combined climate and public health benefits than direct air capture. The analysis models the health and climate benefit of cost-equivalent deployments of DAC, solar, and onshore wind across US grid regions from 2020 to 2050.
Manufacturer-sponsored coupon use and brand-name drug costs among patients with insurance
Coupon programs shifted towards higher-cost drugs, offering larger incentives to offset increasing patient cost-sharing requirements. Manufacturer-sponsored coupons saw a significant decline between 2017 and 2024, while per-claim coupon amounts rose accordingly.
Medicare spending implications for semaglutide under voluntary price agreements
A lower semaglutide price could generate savings that offset the cost of treating an additional 550,000 to 3.6 million Medicare beneficiaries eligible for expanded obesity-indication coverage. This voluntary price agreement may lead to substantial savings for Medicare spending on semaglutide treatment.
American Meteorological Society responds to NSF regarding the future of NCAR
The American Meteorological Society strongly opposes the dismantling of NCAR, highlighting its central role in atmospheric sciences and its impact on the nation's economy. The AMS recommends that NSF engage in a rigorous process to develop a strategy for enhancing scientific innovation in the weather enterprise.
Study confirms food fortification is highly cost-effective in fighting hidden hunger across 63 countries
A comprehensive systematic review found that large-scale food fortification is a highly cost-effective intervention for reducing global malnutrition, with benefits far outweighing costs. The study analyzed 56 studies from 63 countries and found that fortification programs deliver substantial health benefits relative to costs.
Cost-effectiveness of semaglutide for secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease in US adults
A new study found semaglutide to be an effective treatment for preventing secondary cardiovascular disease in US adults. The medication meets conventional thresholds when used alone, but its cost-effectiveness is improved with combination therapy.
IV iron is the cost-effective treatment for women with iron deficiency anemia and heavy menstrual bleeding
A single dose of IV iron dextran is the most cost-effective treatment option for women with heavy menstrual bleeding and iron deficiency anemia. The study found that IV iron dextran improves quality of life and reduces costs compared to oral ferrous sulfate.
Cost-effectiveness of cryopreserved vs liquid-stored platelets for managing surgical bleeding
A study found cryopreserved platelets to be a cost-effective option for managing surgical bleeding in cardiac surgery, dominating liquid-stored platelets in this setting. Further investigation is required to assess the economic benefits of cryopreserved platelets in broader populations.
Research spotlight: how long-acting injectable treatment could transform care for postpartum women with HIV
A new study suggests that long-acting injectable treatment can prevent up to 160 infant infections per year in Zimbabwe. The treatment, LA cabotegravir with rilpivirine, could be cost-effective if priced at $156/year or lower for women whose HIV has not been fully suppressed at delivery.
Strategies to keep drug discovery research alive in the US despite funding cuts from biomedical researchers
Biomedical researchers recommend diversifying funding sources, pursuing earlier licensing and commercialization, and fostering international collaborations. The US drug discovery landscape is at risk due to federal funding cuts, and alternative approaches are needed to ensure continued progress.
Fairer funding: A lottery-first approach for more equitable research grant allocation
A new study from the University of Lübeck introduces a 'lottery-first' approach to research grant allocation, increasing female representation by 10% and funded projects led by women by 23%. This method reduces estimated economic costs by two-thirds while maintaining scientific excellence.
Caution advised with corporate virtual care partnerships
Provincial partnerships with corporate-provided virtual care programs raise concerns about access, quality of care, and data privacy. Governments must ensure healthcare standards are met, protect patient data, and maintain transparency around contracts and profits. The authors advise caution before introducing corporate entities in the...
Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of automated external defibrillators in private homes
Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in private homes show effectiveness in improving patient outcomes for those with shockable rhythms during cardiac arrest. However, considering the rarity of cardiac arrest at home and current AED pricing, general purchase is not deemed cost-effective.
Glucose-lowering medication classes and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes
This study found that GLP-1RAs and SGLT2is offer the greatest cardiovascular benefits for adults with type 2 diabetes. The magnitude of benefit depends on baseline age, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, heart failure, and kidney impairment.
Tirzepatide more cost-effective than semaglutide in patients with knee osteoarthritis and obesity
A study found that tirzepatide is more cost-effective than semaglutide for treating knee osteoarthritis and obesity. Tirzepatide offered a more favorable return on investment, making it the better choice for patients.
Are probiotics worth the cost to prevent infection after a colon removal surgery?
A UCLA Health study found that taking an 8-strain probiotic daily reduces the risk of pouchitis, a common inflammatory condition. However, the treatment's cost-effectiveness depends on the patient's likelihood of flare-ups, with benefits only seen in patients with frequent relapses.
Researchers find intensive blood pressure targets are cost-effective
A simulation study by Mass General Brigham researchers found that intensive blood pressure control is cost-effective, even with typical levels of measurement error. The study suggests that targeting systolic blood pressure below 120mmHg prevents more cardiovascular events than lower targets.
Broad COVID-19 vaccination makes economic sense, especially for older adults, study finds
A new study by Michigan Medicine University of Michigan researchers concludes that broad COVID-19 vaccination in adults saves the US more money than it spends, with significant economic benefits for those over 65 and middle-aged adults. The model focuses on preventing deaths, hospitalizations, and lost productivity.
Cost-effectiveness of 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccination in US adults
A modeling study finds that COVID-19 vaccination is more cost-effective for individuals aged 65 and above, with favorable results across different parameter input scenarios. The study's findings support the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices' decision to recommend vaccination with the 2023-2024 mRNA vaccines.
When should preventive mastectomy be offered for women at higher risk of breast cancer
A new analysis suggests that preventive mastectomy is a cost-effective way to reduce the likelihood of developing breast cancer compared to breast screening and medication. Women aged 30 or above with a lifetime breast cancer risk of 35% or more may benefit from this treatment option.
Projected outcomes of removing fluoride from U.S. public water systems
Cessation of public water fluoridation would lead to higher rates of tooth decay and increased healthcare costs in the US. The model suggests that current safe levels of fluoride have substantial ongoing benefits.
Hearing aid service models, technology, and patient outcomes
A randomized clinical trial found that over-the-counter and audiologist-assisted services yielded similar outcomes to prescription hearing aids. High-end and low-end hearing aids showed comparable results, challenging the need for higher-cost high-end models.
Despite higher sensitivity, multitarget stool DNA tests not as cost-effective for early detection of CRC compared with FIT
Research finds that multitarget stool DNA tests have higher sensitivity than FIT, but are not as cost-effective for early detection of colorectal cancer. Costs per detected advanced neoplasia case or early-detected CRC case are 7- to 9-fold higher for MSDT-based and N-G MSDT-based screening.
Sandia National Labs helps save taxpayers millions through smarter spending
Sandia National Laboratories has achieved over $439 million in savings for the Department of Energy by streamlining purchasing agreements and securing volume pricing. The Supply Chain Management Center, created in 2006, facilitates collaboration between prime contractors to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
Too few ward nurses linked to longer hospital stay, readmission, and risk of death
A long-term study published in BMJ Quality & Safety found that employing too few permanent nurses on hospital wards is linked to longer inpatient stays, readmissions, patient deaths, and ultimately costs more. Redressing the balance saves around £5000 for each year of healthy life gained, but not if temporary agency staff are used.
Difficult and costly energy transition unless the EU invests in biomass
Biomass is crucial for Europe's ability to reach its climate targets, providing both energy and negative emissions. Excluding biomass from the European energy system would increase costs by 169 billion Euros per year.
Immediate skin-to-skin contact in very preterm neonates and early childhood neurodevelopment
A randomized clinical trial found no association between immediate skin-to-skin contact and improved neurodevelopmental outcomes in very preterm neonates. However, the intervention was shown to enhance breastfeeding practices up to 12 months compared to standard care.
A new smartphone-sized device can test for tuberculosis. Here’s why that matters for children
Tulane University scientists developed a handheld device to deliver rapid and accurate tuberculosis diagnoses in under an hour. The device, called the lab-in-tube assay (LIT), can detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA in saliva, blood, and sputum samples, offering a cost-effective tool for improving TB diagnoses in resource-limited areas.
Investing in COVID-19 vaccination more than paid off for U.S., study finds
A new study reveals that the US national vaccine strategy saved more money than it spent on testing, buying and delivering COVID-19 vaccines after just one year. The analysis found that the vaccines reduced serious illness and deaths, resulting in significant cost savings.
New study suggests that simultaneously burying broadband and electricity could be worth millions to people in MA towns
A new study from the University of Massachusetts Amherst found that co-undergrounding wires, particularly in outage-prone areas, can pay off with a cost savings of nearly 40% compared to replacing them separately. The study suggests that proactively undergrounding lines that are currently above ground can bring significant benefits.
Surrey’s carbon capture technology could help the UK rival global competitors in race to produce clean fuel from air
Researchers at the University of Surrey developed a cost-effective method for removing CO2 from the air and converting it into synthetic fuel. The Dual-Function Material (DFM) process has been shown to be financially competitive with established industry methods, offering a promising route to decarbonize industries.
Good fences make good neighbors (with carnivores)
A new study from Colorado State University found that fortified corrals can reduce livestock losses due to predator attacks on nearby carnivores. The study demonstrated a beneficial spillover effect where households neighboring those with chain-link corrals also reported fewer attacks on their livestock.
Lifetime health effects and cost-effectiveness of tirzepatide and semaglutide in US adults
Tirzepatide and semaglutide offer substantial long-term health benefits in US adults, reducing obesity risk. However, the high costs of these medications make them not cost-effective at current net prices, hindering equitable access.
Cultured meat’s new secret ingredient: aloe vera
A new study introduces Aloe vera as a natural scaffold for cultured meat production, enhancing the taste and texture of alternative proteins. The research also highlights a novel bioprocessing approach using Aloe vera scaffolds in a macrofluidic single-use bioreactor.
UH researchers making clean water more accessible
Researchers at the University of Houston have developed a new membrane that allows water to flow eight times faster while maintaining high salt rejection rates. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and cost-effective desalination systems, lowering costs and increasing access to clean water.
New home-based intervention could reduce emergency hospital admissions for older people
A new home-based intervention has been shown to reduce unplanned hospital admissions among older adults with mild frailty by 35%. The service, which includes personalized visits and tailored support, also leads to small improvements in wellbeing and reduces hospital costs.
New remotely-delivered support programme could deliver excellent care while saving the NHS and social care an average of £9000 a year for each person with dementia
A new remotely-delivered support programme, NIDUS-Family, has been shown to improve the lives of people with dementia while reducing healthcare costs. The programme uses goal setting and personalized care to help individuals live well at home for longer, resulting in cost savings of £8934 per person over one year.
Salt substitution and recurrent stroke and death
A cluster trial found salt substitution to be safe, with significant reductions in stroke recurrence and death rates among patients. The study supports large-scale implementation of this low-cost intervention as a major public health gain.
Microscopy approach offers new way to study cancer therapeutics at single-cell level
Researchers developed a novel microscopy technique to study metabolic changes in individual cancer cells at the single-cell level. They found that radiation treatment caused significant metabolic shifts in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells, particularly through the activation of HIF-1α.
Shorter, smarter, safer: Short-course antibiotics can revolutionize healthcare
Researchers found that short-course antibiotics can be as effective as traditional longer treatments in preventing death and recurrence of pneumonia. This approach offers significant value for healthcare systems by reducing hospital expenditure while maintaining excellent patient outcomes.
UT Arlington powers domestic magnet manufacturing innovation
The University of Texas at Arlington is developing more efficient processes for sourcing rare earth elements needed to produce high-performance magnets. The project aims to make the mining of these critical materials more environmentally sustainable and cost-effective.
Semaglutide can have lifetime cost and health benefits for non-diabetic overweight or obese individuals with heart disease
Researchers analyzed cost-effectiveness of semaglutide for non-diabetic overweight/obese individuals with heart disease. With price reductions, semaglutide shows promise in reducing lifetime costs and improving health outcomes.
Cost-effectiveness of a polypill for cardiovascular disease prevention in an underserved population
A polypill containing a statin and three half-standard dose antihypertensives could significantly reduce health disparities in low-income, majority Black populations with limited access to healthcare. The study suggests that this treatment approach may be a high-value intervention for preventing cardiovascular disease.
Early cancer screening could save Canadian healthcare system nearly half a billion dollars over patients’ lifetime
Early detection of breast cancer can lead to less intensive treatments, saving the Canadian healthcare system $459.6M over women's lifetimes and 3,499 breast cancer deaths. Screening mammograms and diagnostics costs are easily offset by earlier stage treatment.
Dan M. Frangopol and Sunyong Kim co-author third book on structural performance
The authors introduce advanced methodologies for integrating maintenance strategies and structural health monitoring to extend infrastructure service life. Topics include data-driven decision-making, multi-objective optimization, cost-benefit analysis, and the role of data analytics in managing uncertainties.
New, simple, and natural method for producing vitamin B2
A team of researchers from DTU has successfully produced vitamin B2 using a novel, cost-effective, and climate-friendly method involving food-approved lactic acid bacteria. The production process requires only basic fermentation tools and can be integrated into traditional foods, enhancing public health and reducing environmental impact.
Research study shows the cost-effectiveness of AI-enhanced heart failure screening
A new study suggests that using AI-ECG tools to screen patients for low ejection fraction is cost-effective in the long term, especially in outpatient settings. The study found a cost-effectiveness ratio of $1,651 per quality-adjusted life year, indicating that the program can reduce costs over time.
Using antibiotics alone to treat children with appendicitis is a cost-effective and safe alternative to surgery, study shows
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that using antibiotics alone to treat children with uncomplicated appendicitis is a cost-effective and safe alternative to surgery. This approach resulted in lower costs and similar quality-of-life scores compared to upfront surgery.
NFL’s Arizona Cardinals provide 12 schools with CPR resources to improve cardiac emergency outcomes
The American Heart Association and Arizona Cardinals partnered with 12 local schools for CPR and AED training, aiming to improve cardiac emergency outcomes. The training equipped schools with lifesaving skills and resources, increasing the community's capacity to respond in cardiac emergencies.
Greg Liu is in his element using chemistry to tackle the plastics problem
Greg Liu has developed a revolutionary way to convert certain plastics into soaps, detergents, lubricants, and other products through thermolysis. The process breaks down polypropylene and polyethylene molecules into chemical compounds, leaving minimal residual solids and usable oil.
Metalenses harness AI for superior performance
Researchers have developed a deep-learning-powered metalens imaging system that overcomes limitations of traditional metalenses. The system pairs a mass-produced metalens with an image restoration framework driven by AI to achieve aberration-free, full-color images while maintaining compact form factor.
Kumamoto University scientists developed new SARS-CoV-2 variant detection method
Researchers at Kumamoto University have developed a cutting-edge diagnostic tool, Intelli-OVI, to rapidly identify emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants. This system combines advanced DNA detection technology with computational algorithms to offer a quicker and more cost-effective method of monitoring viral mutations.
Kitchen renovation could reduce household air pollution and save lives
A new study found that simple kitchen improvements can significantly reduce exposure to harmful pollutants, preventing over 67,000 premature deaths annually. Widespread implementation of ventilation systems could be an affordable solution to mitigate household air pollution in rural areas.
Warmer homes for healthier hearts and brains: insulated housing reduces cardiovascular risk in Japan
Upgrading home insulation can lower medical bills and extend healthy lives by reducing blood pressure and CVD risk. Simulations showed that upgrading or retrofitting insulation is cost-effective for many homeowners, with significant health benefits justifying the costs.
Thermophotovoltaics demonstrate economic promise
Researchers analyzed a thermophotovoltaic system paired with phase-change materials for energy storage and found slight reductions in costs. The study identified key factors affecting TPV system costs, highlighting the need for future research to improve adoption and efficiency.
Study: Marshes provide cost-effective coastal protection
Researchers found that restoring coastal marshes can significantly help protect coastlines at a reasonable cost. A study by MIT graduate student Ernie I. H. Lee and professor Heidi Nepf shows that enhancing salt marshes in front of protective seawalls can reduce construction costs while still providing adequate protection from storms.
Bariatric surgery is more cost effective than newer weight loss drugs alone
Two studies found that bariatric surgery is more cost-effective in the long term compared to GLP-1 RA weight loss drugs alone. Combining both treatments is even more cost-effective. The use of GLP-1 RA before surgery appears safe and may be a novel approach to treating obesity.
50 by 50—How can we reduce the probability of dying before age 70 by 50% globally by 2050?
The Lancet Commission on Investing in Health recommends focusing on 15 priority health conditions to achieve a 50% reduction in premature deaths. Raising taxes on tobacco is key, with estimates suggesting it could reduce mortality rates by more than any other single policy.
Countries that choose to do so can reduce premature death by half, researchers say
A new report argues that countries can cut premature mortality in half by 2050 through targeted health investments. By prioritizing the 15 health conditions causing most premature deaths and implementing public subsidies for essential medicines and diagnostics, nations can achieve this goal.