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Systematic Hearing Performance Evaluation Process for Adolescents with Cochlear Implantation at Early Ages
Published on: March 24, 2023
598
Cost-benefit Analysis of Cochlear Implants: A Societal Perspective.
Olaf M Neve1, Jenneke A Boerman2, Wilbert B van den Hout3
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
Ear and Hearing
|March 6, 2021
Summary
Cochlear implantation (CI) provides significant societal benefits, with total benefits exceeding costs across all patient groups studied. This includes substantial net financial gains for children, adults, and seniors, highlighting CI
Area of Science:
- Health Economics
- Otolaryngology
- Medical Technology Assessment
Background:
- Previous cost-effectiveness analyses of cochlear implantation (CI) primarily focused on healthcare expenses.
- A comprehensive societal perspective, encompassing health outcomes, education, and productivity, is crucial for evaluating CI's value.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the costs and benefits of cochlear implantation (CI) from a broad societal perspective in the Netherlands.
- To quantify the economic impact of CI on patients and society, considering health, education, and productivity.
Main Methods:
- A cost-benefit analysis using a Markov state transition model was conducted.
- Prototypical patient groups (prelingually deaf children, adults, and seniors with hearing loss) were analyzed.
- Costs and benefits were estimated over lifetime horizons, with sensitivity analyses performed.
Main Results:
- Cochlear implantation (CI) demonstrated a net positive benefit across all studied patient groups.
- Lifetime net benefits were €433,000 for prelingually deaf children, €275,000 for adults, and €76,000 for seniors.
- Monetary valuation of health outcomes, reduced educational costs, and increased productivity drove these positive results.
Conclusions:
- The societal benefits of cochlear implantation (CI) outweigh its costs, generating advantages for both individuals and society.
- Increased healthcare costs associated with CI are compensated by significant savings in educational and productivity expenses.
- CI offers a favorable economic return, particularly for pediatric and working-age populations.
