Placental growth factor testing for suspected pre-eclampsia: a cost-effectiveness analysis.

Area of Science:

• Maternal Health
• Clinical Economics
• Diagnostic Testing

Background:

• Pre-eclampsia poses significant risks to maternal and fetal well-being.
• Accurate and timely diagnosis of pre-eclampsia is crucial for effective management.
• Current diagnostic methods can be resource-intensive and may lead to delayed treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of integrating placental growth factor (PlGF) testing into UK maternity services.
• To compare the economic impact and clinical outcomes of PlGF testing against standard care for suspected pre-eclampsia.
• To determine the potential for cost savings and improved maternal outcomes with PlGF testing implementation.

Main Methods:

• A cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted.
• Data were sourced from eleven maternity units within the PARROT trial.
• Monte Carlo simulation modelled resource use and maternal adverse outcomes for women with suspected pre-eclampsia.

Main Results:

• PlGF testing alongside clinical management proved more cost-effective than standard care.
• An average cost saving of UK£149 per patient was observed, including the test cost.
• Annual potential savings across NHS England were estimated at UK£2,891,196, with fewer adverse maternal outcomes.

Conclusions:

• PlGF testing in antenatal services offers significant cost-savings per participant.
• Implementation of PlGF testing improves maternal outcomes by reducing adverse events.
• This economic analysis supports the adoption of PlGF testing for suspected pre-eclampsia assessment.