Cost-benefit analysis simulation of a hospital-based violence intervention program

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Economics
• Injury Prevention

Background:

• Violent injury is a leading cause of disability and mortality globally.
• Hospital-based violence intervention programs (HVIPs) show potential for preventing recurrent injuries.
• The economic impact of HVIPs remains largely unquantified.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the cost-benefit of HVIPs over five years.
• To simulate savings in healthcare, criminal justice, and productivity costs.
• To analyze a hypothetical cohort of 180 violently injured patients.

Main Methods:

• Cost-benefit analysis simulation using 2012 data.
• Modeling of reinjury and perpetration incidents over five years.
• Calculated savings using 20%, 25%, and 30% HVIP effect sizes and a 5% discount rate.

Main Results:

• Cost savings estimates ranged from $82,765 to $4,055,873 at a 25% effect size.
• The broadest model indicated substantial potential economic benefits.

Conclusions:

• HVIPs are projected to yield significant cost savings.
• This study offers a framework for economic evaluation of HVIPs.
• Findings can inform public policy on violence prevention investments.