Cost-Benefit Analysis of Providing Fluoride Varnish in a Pediatric Primary Care Office

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Primary Care
• Preventive Dentistry
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Leading health organizations recommend fluoride varnish in pediatric primary care.
• Barriers to implementing fluoride varnish services in pediatric settings exist.
• Understanding the costs and benefits is crucial for successful implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a cost-benefit analysis of a fluoride varnish program in a pediatric primary care office.
• To determine the financial viability of implementing fluoride varnish services in a real-world clinical setting.

Main Methods:

• A cost-benefit analysis was performed for a pediatric primary care office in Volusia County, Florida.
• Data were retrieved from the electronic health record system.
• Microsoft Excel was used to calculate estimated mean reimbursement data from major insurers.

Main Results:

• The analysis projected a positive annual net income ranging from $4,498 to $26,775.
• The average potential annual net income was estimated at $15,637.
• The findings indicate a favorable financial return for the service.

Conclusions:

• A fluoride varnish program demonstrates a positive financial benefit for pediatric primary care offices.
• This cost-benefit analysis provides a foundation for quality improvement projects to implement fluoride varnish.
• The financial incentive supports the integration of preventive dental care into primary care settings.