Simplifying acquisition of essential diagnostics: A comprehensive costing tool for anatomic pathology

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Health Economics
• Laboratory Medicine

Background:

• Histopathology is crucial for cancer diagnosis globally.
• Disparities in diagnostic access hinder equitable cancer care.
• Growing demand for cancer services necessitates cost-effective solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a scalable costing tool for histology laboratories.
• To guide policymakers and funders in establishing cost-effective diagnostic services.
• To ensure financial sustainability for laboratories serving diverse patient populations.

Main Methods:

• Detailed analysis of histology laboratory logistics and costs.
• Incorporation of economies of scale and scope in costing.
• Consideration of national economic structures and laboratory financial models.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive, scalable costing tool for histology laboratories has been developed.
• The tool standardizes the selection of necessary goods for histology services.
• It serves as a guide for implementing pathology services.

Conclusions:

• Laboratories can achieve self-sustainment and financial health using the tool.
• The tool facilitates the inclusion of impoverished patients unable to afford services.
• This promotes equitable access to essential cancer diagnostics.