A cost-utility analysis of therapy for amblyopia.

OBJECTIVE Evaluation of the incremental cost-effectiveness of therapy for amblyopia. DESIGN Cost-utility reference-case analysis. METHODS A cost-utility analysis was performed from a third-party insurer perspective by using decision analysis, evidence-based data from the literature, and patient preference-based time trade-off utility values. DATABASE Patient-derived time trade-off ocular utility values and the American Academy of Ophthalmology Preferred Practice Pattern guidelines for the treatment of amblyopia. INTERVENTION Treatment of childhood amblyopia using medical and surgical therapies per the American Academy of Ophthalmology Preferred Practice Pattern. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Dollars (year 2001 nominal U.S. dollars) expended per quality-adjusted life-year ($/QALY) gained. RESULTS Treatment for amblyopia resulted in a $/QALY gained of $2281 with a discount rate of 3% for costs and outcomes. Sensitivity analysis, varying costs and utility values by 10%, resulted in a $/QALY gained range from $2053 to $2509. CONCLUSIONS When compared with other interventions in health care, therapy for amblyopia seems to be highly cost-effective. This information is increasingly important for health care policy makers.