Cost Calculations of CT guided biopsy of lung lesions in an emergent country

Abstract

A correct understanding of the true costs of a procedure is necessary to make informed decisions in cost-effectiveness analyses. The actual comprehensive costs of performing CT guided biopsy of lung lesions (CTGLB) were analyzed. Methods: Costs included labor, equipment, administration, facility establishment and maintenance, overhead, and consumable supplies. Cost identification was performed with use of an hourly rate that reflected the labor cost of CTGLB. The costs of the consumable supplies used during the procedure were calculated. From august to December 2018, 65 CTGLB were studied in 61 consecutive patients to determine mean procedure duration and supplies consumption. Variable costs include consumable supplies and salaries of the personnel involved in the procedures. Fixed direct costs include the purchase, depreciation, maintenance, and repair costs of the CT scanner and other related equipment. The indirect costs which include transfer and overhead costs were not calculated due to the absence of an analytical accounting of the hospital. Costs were calculated in Tunisian Dinars (TND) then converted into dollars: 1$=3TND Results: the average duration of the procedure was estimated at 30 minutes. Total inclusive direct cost of labor was 8 $ per procedure (Radiologist, resident, Radiology nurse, Technologist). Average cost by procedure, including consumable supplies was 45 $ . Fixed direct cost was 33 $ per CTGLB (depreciation 18$, maintenance and repair costs 10$). The average direct cost of a CTGLB was 86 $. Conclusion: The average direct cost of CTGLB was established, showing that the cost remains very low under our skies. This is due mostly to underpayment of hospital medical staff in our country