Cost-analysis comparison of outpatient see-and-treat hysteroscopy service with other hysteroscopy service models

Study objective: To conduct a cost analysis of 3 different hysteroscopy service models.

Design: Decision-analytic model constructed from the UK National Health Service perspective (Canadian Task Force classification III).

Setting: Tertiary-care hospital.

Patients: Women undergoing hysteroscopy (N=1109).

Interventions: Three hysteroscopy service models: outpatient see-and-treat service; outpatient diagnostic hysteroscopy followed by referral for operative hysteroscopy under general anesthesia (outpatient and referral service); and general anesthesia see-and-treat service.

Measurements and main results: Costs were measured in 2008 UK pounds sterling. Of the 3 treatment arms, total costs were lowest with outpatient see-and-treat service. The lower cost of the outpatient see-and-treat service was observed across a number of patient subgroups (age, menopause status, and indication) and when subjected to sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions: Outpatient see-and-treat hysteroscopy was associated with the lowest treatment costs. This service model may reduce the total cost of care in women referred for hysteroscopy.