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Published on: August 1, 2019
Estimating development cost for a tailored interactive computer program to enhance colorectal cancer screening
David R Lairson1, Yu-Chia Chang, Judith L Bettencourt
1The University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston, TX 77030, USA. David.R.Lairson@uth.tmc.edu
Summary
Developing tailored computer programs for colorectal cancer screening costs $328,866. This interactive intervention aims to improve patient adherence to screening guidelines, aiding future healthcare planning.
Area of Science:
- Health Informatics
- Health Services Research
- Health Economics
Background:
- Improving compliance with colorectal cancer screening guidelines is crucial for early detection and improved patient outcomes.
- Tailored interactive computer-based interventions offer a promising approach to enhance patient education and adherence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the development cost of a tailored interactive computer education program for colorectal cancer screening.
- To provide data for feasibility studies and economic evaluations of similar digital health interventions.
Main Methods:
- An actual-work estimate method was employed to track resource utilization.
- Data were prospectively collected via time logs, administrative records, and subcontractual data.
- Sensitivity analysis was conducted to assess parameter uncertainty.
Main Results:
- The total development cost for the interactive program was $328,866.
- Amortized over 7 years for 1,000 patients, the cost was $52.79 per patient.
- Personnel expenses accounted for approximately 69% of the total development cost.
Conclusions:
- Development cost estimation is vital for assessing the feasibility and economic viability of digital health interventions.
- Findings can assist decision-makers in planning, budgeting, and pricing the development of similar computer-based programs.
- This study highlights the significant investment required for creating effective, tailored patient education tools.
