Long-term cost-effectiveness of screening strategies for hearing loss.

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Geriatric Medicine
• Health Economics

Background:

• Hearing loss is prevalent in older adults, impacting quality of life and treatment adherence.
• Cost-effectiveness data for hearing loss screening in older veterans is limited.
• Identifying effective screening methods is crucial for timely intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the cost-effectiveness of three hearing loss screening strategies in older veterans.
• To evaluate the impact of screening on hearing aid adoption.
• To determine the most economically viable screening approach.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 2,251 older veterans compared four groups: no screening (control), tone-emitting otoscope, hearing handicap questionnaire, and combined screening.
• Effectiveness was measured by hearing aid use one year post-screening.
• Audiology costs included screening and one-year follow-up care.

Main Results:

• The tone-emitting otoscope group showed a significant 2.8% increase in hearing aid use.
• The incremental cost-effectiveness was $1,439.00 per additional hearing aid user for the otoscope group.
• Total audiology costs per patient were $77.04 (control), $122.70 (otoscope), $121.37 (questionnaire), and $157.08 (dual).

Conclusions:

• Hearing loss screening with a tone-emitting otoscope is a cost-effective strategy for older veterans.
• This approach enhances hearing aid adoption and is economically viable.
• Routine screening can identify veterans motivated for hearing treatment.