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Lifetime costs for preventive medical services: a model
The Journal of Family Practice
|September 25, 1999
Summary
Calculating the lifetime cost of preventive healthcare reveals significant expenses, with women
Area of Science:
- Health Economics
- Preventive Medicine
- Cost Analysis
Background:
- While the cost-effectiveness of preventive services is debated, lifetime costs remain unquantified.
- Previous literature lacks studies calculating the total lifetime cost of preventive medical services.
- This study addresses the gap by estimating lifetime expenditures for preventive care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To calculate the total lifetime cost of preventive medical services.
- To model these costs for idealized male and female patients.
Main Methods:
- Utilized US Preventive Services Task Force screening recommendations as a benchmark.
- Developed a model with asymptomatic, healthy, ideal patients.
- Determined typical market charges for all required preventive services.
Main Results:
- Estimated lifetime costs for men ranged from $5,432.60 to $7,529.60.
- Estimated lifetime costs for women ranged from $15,307.10 to $18,525.10.
Conclusions:
- Lifetime cost data for preventive services can inform patient, physician, and insurer decisions.
- Understanding these costs is crucial for resource allocation in healthcare.