A Cost-Benefit Analysis of a Family Systems Intervention for Managing Pediatric Chronic Illness

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Psychology
• Health Economics
• Family Systems Theory

Background:

• Psychosocial interventions are increasingly common for pediatric chronic illness.
• However, their economic benefits remain under-explored.
• This study addresses the cost-effectiveness of a specific psychosocial program.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the costs and benefits of the family systems-based psychosocial intervention, Mastering Each New Direction (MEND).
• To quantify the direct and indirect economic impact on families with chronically ill children.
• To determine the cost-benefit ratio of the MEND program.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-prospective study design was employed.
• 20 families with chronically ill children participated.
• Direct and indirect costs were compared for 12 months pre- and post-intervention.

Main Results:

• The MEND program cost an estimated $5,320.
• Families experienced significant cost reductions: $15,249 in direct costs and $15,627 in indirect costs.
• Medical expenses decreased by an average of 86% in both direct and indirect costs.
• The cost-benefit ratio was 0.17, indicating substantial savings.

Conclusions:

• The MEND program offers significant economic advantages for families and third-party payers.
• For every dollar spent on MEND, approximately $5.74 was saved.
• Findings support the integration and reimbursement of such psychosocial interventions in healthcare policy.