Cost-Effective Screening for Congenital Toxoplasmosis
Author Information
Author(s): Stillwaggon Eileen, Carrier Christopher S., Sautter Mari, McLeod Rima
Primary Institution: Gettysburg College and The University of Chicago
Hypothesis
Is universal maternal screening for congenital toxoplasmosis a cost-saving intervention in the United States?
Conclusion
Universal screening according to the French protocol is cost saving for the US population within broad parameters for costs and probabilities.
Supporting Evidence
- Universal monthly maternal screening for congenital toxoplasmosis is cost-saving.
- Savings of $620 per child screened were identified.
- Screening is cost-saving for rates of congenital infection above 1 per 10,000 live births.
- Results are robust to changes in test costs and other parameters.
Takeaway
This study shows that testing pregnant women for a disease called congenital toxoplasmosis can save money and help prevent serious health problems in babies.
Methodology
A decision-analytic and cost-minimization model was constructed to compare screening strategies and their costs.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the assumption of 100% specificity in tests and the impact of socioeconomic factors on access to care.
Limitations
The analysis assumes all mothers receive care and adhere to screening recommendations, which may not reflect real-world scenarios.
Participant Demographics
The study focuses on pregnant women in the United States.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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