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Savings obtained using an oxygen economizer device: a cost-minimization analysis
1Fondazione Salvatore Maugeri, Clinica del Lavoro e della Riabilitazione, Tradate, Italy.
Summary
This study found that an oxygen economizer significantly reduced daily oxygen consumption in patients with lung disease, leading to substantial cost savings. The device proved effective in maintaining adequate oxygen saturation during rest, sleep, and exercise.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Health Economics
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Liquid oxygen poses a significant financial burden on healthcare systems.
- Oxygen economizer devices offer a potential solution to reduce oxygen consumption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of the Companion 5 Oxygen Saver device.
- To perform a cost-minimization analysis of using the economizer device.
Main Methods:
- Prospective clinical trial with 29 patients with restrictive and obstructive lung disease.
- Equivalence in hemoglobin saturation with and without the economizer was assessed.
- Cost-minimization analysis based on average unit oxygen consumption was performed.
Main Results:
- The economizer device significantly reduced total daily oxygen consumption (p < 0.001).
- Mean oxygen saturation during exercise was significantly higher with the economizer (p = 0.04).
- Estimated annual savings per patient were US$2,492 +/- $866.
Conclusions:
- The oxygen economizer device is effective in reducing oxygen consumption and associated costs.
- Widespread adoption of such economizers could lead to significant healthcare savings.
- Further studies are needed to confirm liquid oxygen's cost-effectiveness in treating hypoxemic patients.