Cost-effectiveness analysis of disposable versus reusable biopsy forceps at Siriraj Hospital

Abstract

This research documents which choices of biopsy forceps between disposable and reusable biopsy forceps is more valuable. The criterion which choice is better is the cost effectiveness. The research does not only take into consideration the direct cost but it also includes any indirect cost, i.e., environmental cost. The criterion used in determining the effectiveness of the biopsy forceps are divided as followed: (1) ease of passage through the endoscope, (2) ease of opening and closing and (3) adequacy of the tissues. Each category has the benchmark indicated by the well known and respectful endoscopist to judge whether it is effective. The first choice based on the real circumstance in the government hospitals that both reusable and disposable biopsy forceps are being used. Obviously, the reusable biopsy forceps choice is cheaper as the disposable biopsy forceps costs 3.68 times. The second choice assumes that a large portion of disposable biopsy forceps is used in the hospital; therefore, the whole sale disposable biopsy forceps’ unit cost decreases. The difference then falls sharply to only 23%. Nevertheless, if the effectiveness is considered, the result shows that the cost-effectiveness of the reusable choice is 15% higher than the disposable choice. Moreover, to further enhance the research, we also analyze which factors affect the scores. The results suggest that the number of biopsy sample(s) is opposing the choice of the reusable biopsy forceps while it is supporting the disposable biopsy forceps alternative. Furthermore, the objective option, whether it involves with the pathology analysis, also advocates the choice of the disposable biopsy forceps. Based from the research, if the number of biopsy forceps used is high and the whole sale price is achieved, the disposable choice is recommended.