Vol. 6, Issue 1, Part A (2024)

Background: Hepatitis B (HBV) and Hepatitis C (HCV) infections are major global health concerns, leading to chronic liver diseases, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Early detection through screening is critical for effective management and treatment. Integrating screening for HBV and HCV into routine healthcare practices has the potential to enhance early diagnosis, improve patient outcomes, and reduce healthcare costs. However, the cost-effectiveness of such integrated screening programs needs thorough evaluation.
Objective: This study aims to assess the cost-effectiveness of integrating hepatitis B and C screening into routine healthcare practices compared to standard non-integrated screening approaches.
Methods: A cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted using a decision-analytic model. Data were collected from healthcare providers implementing integrated HBV and HCV screening programs across various healthcare settings. Costs were evaluated from a healthcare system perspective, including direct medical costs (screening, diagnosis, treatment) and indirect costs (lost productivity). The effectiveness was measured in quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were calculated to compare the integrated screening approach with standard care.
Results: The integrated screening program for HBV and HCV demonstrated an ICER of $12,000 per QALY gained, which is below the commonly accepted willingness-to-pay threshold of $50,000 per QALY. The program identified a significantly higher number of asymptomatic cases early, leading to timely treatment and a reduction in the incidence of advanced liver disease. Sensitivity analyses showed that the integrated approach remained cost-effective across a range of assumptions, including variations in disease prevalence, treatment costs, and healthcare utilization.
Conclusion: Integrating HBV and HCV screening into routine healthcare practices is a cost-effective strategy, improving early detection and treatment outcomes while reducing the long-term burden of liver disease. Policymakers should consider adopting integrated screening programs as part of comprehensive public health strategies to combat hepatitis B and C.