Cost minimization and budget impact analysis of viscosupplementation for the treatment of knee osteoarthrosis in El Salvador and Panama

Abstract

Introduction/Objective

To develop a cost minimization and a budget impact analysis of viscosupplementation with hylan G-F 20 1 × 6 mL for the treatment of knee osteoarthrosis in patients who are not suitable for pharmacological treatment or surgery in El Salvador and Panama.

Materials and methods

The cost minimization and budget impact analyses were developed from the perspective of the public health system, with a 1-year and 5-year analysis horizon, respectively. The main parameters of the models were acquisition costs, administration, and the need for retreatment. For the budgetary impact, quantification of the population was based on published epidemiological information and local databases. Costs were reported in US dollars at 2020 prices.

Results

In El Salvador, the savings derived from its use were $ 35.0 (10%) vs. hylan G-F 20 (2 mL) and $ 202.2 (39%) vs. hyaluronic acid. In Panama, the savings derived from its use were $154.6 (28%) vs. hylan G-F 20 (2 mL) and $567.7 (58%) vs. hyaluronic acid. In the budget impact analysis, considering a gradual substitution over 5 years, the introduction of hylan G-F 20 (6 mL) would be associated with savings of $138,513 (2%) in El Salvador, and $290,728 (3.6%) in Panama.

Conclusions

Viscosupplementation with hylan G-F 20 (6 mL) in patients with knee osteoarthrosis is a cost-saving alternative when compared to hylan G-F 20 (2 mL) and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid derivatives available in El Salvador and Panama.