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. 2024 Nov 3;16(11):e72945.
doi: 10.7759/cureus.72945. eCollection 2024 Nov.

Evaluating the Feasibility and Cost-Effectiveness of EzeCheck for Hemoglobin Screening Across India

Harshavardhan Rajagopal  1 , Nirmal K Mohakud  2 , Dayanidhi Meher  3 , Balu Ps  4 , Sonal Deep Sharma  5
Affiliations

Evaluating the Feasibility and Cost-Effectiveness of EzeCheck for Hemoglobin Screening Across India

Harshavardhan Rajagopal et al. Cureus. .

Abstract

Background Anemia, particularly due to low hemoglobin levels, is a significant public health concern in India. Traditional invasive screening methods can be burdensome and may limit access to diagnosis. This study evaluated the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of a noninvasive hemoglobin screening device called EzeCheck for determining hemoglobin levels across diverse populations in India. We aimed to assess the user feasibility of the EzeCheck device and to conduct a comparative analysis of its cost-effectiveness against other available invasive and noninvasive methods to determine hemoglobin levels. Methods This study adopted a mixed-methods approach, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative data for analysis. User feedback was collected through surveys and interviews with healthcare professionals and workers across various regions. A cost-effectiveness analysis compared the EzeCheck device with other available noninvasive devices and standard invasive methods, accounting for factors such as equipment costs, consumables requirements, time efficiency, and overall testing costs. Results Preliminary findings suggest that the EzeCheck device was well-received by users, with 198 (86%) healthcare professionals reporting improved workflow and patient satisfaction. The comparative analysis revealed that the EzeCheck device was the most affordable option in terms of overall screening costs, while also increasing screening efficiency to a great extent. Moreover, it provided a safer and more comfortable experience for patients and users. Conclusions The noninvasive EzeCheck hemoglobin screening device demonstrates superior feasibility and cost-effectiveness over traditional methods. This study highlights its potential for enhancing anemia detection in India, particularly in underserved areas. By improving accessibility and reducing costs, this device could significantly impact public health outcomes and inform future health policy initiatives.

Keywords: ezecheck; ezerx; feasibility; hemoglobin: hb; hemoglobinometer; non-invasive.

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Conflict of interest statement

Human subjects: Consent for treatment and open access publication was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. The Ethical Committee of Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences issued approval KIIT/KIMS/IEC/543/2021. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Representation of the states from which the study participants were drawn
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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