Cost analysis of regionalized versus decentralized abortion programs

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Public Health Policy
• Health Economics

Background:

• Regionalization of healthcare services is often proposed to improve efficiency.
• The fiscal implications of regionalizing abortion services require detailed examination.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a cost analysis of regionalizing abortion services.
• To evaluate the fiscal benefits against practical challenges.

Main Methods:

• A detailed cost analysis of 14 hospital abortion programs.
• Separated analysis for first and second-trimester procedures.
• Examined total costs and six component costs.

Main Results:

• Fiscal benefits from regionalizing abortion services were found to be insignificant.
• These benefits did not outweigh issues with program visibility.
• Patient accessibility challenges were also identified as a drawback.

Conclusions:

• Regionalization of abortion services presents limited fiscal advantages.
• Challenges in program visibility and patient access are significant concerns.
• Findings informed program planning for the New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation.