Abstract
Introduction: Currently, continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) has been included in the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) benefit package, whereas automated peritoneal dialysis (APD) which is more expensive has not been included in the benefit package, yet. Economic evaluation of APD in pediatric patients has not been studied before. Objectives: We aimed to assess the cost-utility and budget impact of APD versus CAPD in pediatric ESKD patients using a Markov model as well as to study the social impact of APD and CAPD from the perspectives of patients and caregivers. Methods: Cost-utility and budget impact analyses were applied using the Markov model based on a social perspective. The results were presented as the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). Budget impact analysis was evaluated based on a governmental perspective. In addition, the social impact was assessed by qualitative and descriptive researches which collected the data from patients and caregivers for patients receiving APD and CAPD using in-depth interviews. RESULTS: Based on a social perspective, compared to those receiving CAPD, patients receiving APD had an ICER value equal to 3,063,598 baht per QALY gained and APD increased the budget in average by 54 million per year compared to CAPD. Kidney dialysis in pediatric with ESKD had social impacts on both pediatric patients and their caregivers. It is different from ESKD adult patients in that dialysis affects patients themselves. APD was satisfactory and a positive social impact was found among ESKD pediatric patients and their caregivers. Discussion and conclusions: If the societal willingness to pay in Thailand equal to 160,000 baht per QALY gained, APD would not be cost-effective. Compared with CAPD, when considering the social impact on pediatric patients and caregivers. It is clear that APD can help both pediatric patients and their caregivers carry out their daily activities during the day and the inclusion of APD can result in an increase in annual budget of 54 million baht. Therefore, we recommend to include APD into the benefit package for UHC. However, the government should offer social support methods for pediatric patients and their families.
