Cost-utility analysis of the National Health Screening Program for chronic kidney disease in Korea

Although a National Health Screening Program (NHSP) for chronic kidney disease (CKD) has been implemented in Korea since 2002, its cost-effectiveness has never been determined. This study aimed to estimate the cost-utility of NHSP for CKD in Korea.

A Markov decision analytic model was constructed to compare CKD screening strategies of the NHSP with no screening. We developed a model that simulated disease progression in a cohort aged 20-120 years or death from the societal perspective.

Biannual screening starting at age 40 for CKD by proteinuria (dipstick) and estimated glomerular filtration ratio had an ICUR of $66 874/QALY relative to no screening. The targeted screening strategy had an ICUR of $37 812/QALY and $40 787/QALY for persons with diabetes and hypertension, respectively. ICURs improved with lower cost strategies. The most influential parameter that might make screening more cost-effective was the effectiveness of treatment on CKD to decrease disease progression and mortality.

The Korean NHSP for CKD is more cost-effective for patients with diabetes or hypertension than the general population, consistent with prior studies. Although it is too early to conclude the cost-effectiveness of the Korean NHSP for CKD, this study provides evidence that is useful in evaluating the cost-effectiveness of CKD interventions.