[A cost-benefit evaluation of neonatal screening for phenylketonuria and congenital hypothyroidism]

Abstract

Objective: In order to make the best use of health care resources, to achieve the maximal social and economic benefits and to lay a foundation for popularizing neonatal screening for phenylketonuria (PKU) and congenital hypothyroidism (CH), a cost-benefit analysis of the screening program was conducted.

Methods: Cost for and benefit gained from screening were calculated according to the average incidence of two diseases recommended by the Ministry of Health, mean charge for neonatal screening, sampling extraction of medical history and data published in national economic statistics.

Results: The cost of neonatal screening, treatment for PKU with low phenylalanine milk powder and follow up, the total add up to 128 793 Yuan However the direct and indirect financial benefits is 481 263 Yuan, ratio of cost to benefit was 1:3.7. The cost of neonatal screening for CH is 129 175 Yuan. However the financial benefits including the money saved in treatment, nursing care, special education and the loss of income avoided is 468 470 Yuan, ratio of cost to benefit was 1:3.6.

Conclusion: Neonatal screening for PKU and CH in this country reflects a better economic and social benefit and merits further popularization.