Optimizing cost-effective care for chronic constipation in general gastroenterology using an office-based, point-of-care test (RED): Cost-effectiveness and cost-minimization analysis

We aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness/cost-savings of point-of-care anorectal function testing with an investigational device (RED) to triage therapy for chronic constipation in general gastroenterology. A Markov model was constructed to evaluate cost-effectiveness/cost-savings over a one-year time horizon comparing empiric drug/pelvic floor physical therapy to testing-guided care. RED appears to inform the cost-effective strategy for chronic constipation. Compared to usual care without RED, it reduces insurer costs by $810 and patient costs by $6,903. Point-of-care testing using RED appears cost-effective/cost-saving to triage chronic constipation care in general gastroenterology.