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.

INTRODUCTION

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.

METHODS

A Markov model was constructed to evaluate cost-effectiveness/cost-savings over a 1-year time horizon comparing empiric drug/pelvic floor physical therapy to testing guided care.

RESULTS

RED appears to inform the cost-effective strategy for chronic constipation. Compared with usual care without RED, it reduces insurer costs by $810 and patient costs by $6,903.

DISCUSSION

Point-of-care testing using RED appears cost-effective/cost-saving to triage chronic constipation care in general gastroenterology.