Economic evaluation of the cost-utility of remote monitoring in children with obese in rural zone

Abstract

Background: Obesity is a risk factor that triggers other chronic diseases such as cardiovascular, respiratory and diabetes mellitus, among others. However, this scenario can be improved with the use of remote monitoring technologies bringing economic benefits, clinical effectiveness and a better follow-up of users. Objective: Conduct a cost-utility economic assessment of the impact of remote monitoring technology for biomedical signals in preventing obesity in children, within the scope of primary health care, in rural areas. Methods: The study was based on assistance with remote monitoring of 296 children. An economic evaluation was carried out based on health costs, clinical utilities and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). The cost-utility analysis (CUA) was obtained from the direct costs divided by the QALYs. To check if there is a statistically significant difference in clinical utility between the conventional system and the use of Free Living Energy Expenditure Monitoring System® (FLEEM System®), the Kolmogorov-Smirnov normality test (p <0.05) and the Wilcoxon test were applied. Results: The direct annual cost to care for a child using remote monitoring was R$ 541.31 (US$ 137.25) against the conventional practice of R$ 801.96 (US$ 203.34). The average value of 0.06 for the utility and 3.72 QALYs gained from the intervention. CUA was R$ -70.07 (US$ -17.77) per QALY gained from the perspective of remote monitoring. Conclusions: Remote monitoring represents a 32.50% economic gain for the health system, the negative CUA result means that the FLEEM System® can save R$ 70.07 (US$ 17.77) per QALY gained.