Screening for hepatitis C in genito-urinary medicine clinics: A cost utility analysis

Abstract

Background/Aims: To estimate the cost utility (cost per QALY) of screening for hepatitis C (HCV) infection in people attending genito-urinary medicine clinics in England. Methods: An epidemiological model of screening and diagnosis was combined with a Markov chain model of treatment with combination therapy to estimate cost utility. Parameters for the model were informed by literature review, expert opinion and a survey of current screening practice. Results: The base case estimate was about £85,000 per QALY. Selective screening is more cost effective. If screening is restricted to only 20% or 10% of attenders, cost utility is estimated as £39,647 and £34,288 per QALY. If screening is restri..