Impact of self-measurement of blood glucose on complications of type 2 diabetes: economic analysis from a Czech perspective

Description of a New Predictive Modeling Approach That Correlates the Risk and Associated Cost of Well-Defined Diabetes-Related Complications With Changes in Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c)

The modeling approach described here is designed to support the development of spreadsheet-based simple predictive models. It is based on 3 pillars: association of the complications with HbA1c changes, incidence of the complications, and average cost per event of the complication. For each pillar, the goal of the analysis was (1) to find results for a large diversity of populations with a focus on countries/regions, diabetes type, age, diabetes duration, baseline HbA1c value, and gender; (2) to assess the range of incidences and associations previously reported. Unlike simple predictive models, which mostly are based on only 1 source of information for each of the pillars, we conducted a comprehensive, systematic literature review. Each source found was thoroughly reviewed and only sources meeting quality expectations were considered. The approach allows avoidance of unintended use of extreme data. The user can utilize (1) one of the found sources, (2) the found range as validation for the found figures, or (3) the average of all found publications for an expedited estimate. The modeling approach is intended for use in average insulin-treated diabetes populations in which the baseline HbA1c values are within an average range (6.5% to 11.5%); it is not intended for use in individuals or unique diabetes populations (eg, gestational diabetes). Because the modeling approach only considers diabetes-related complications that are positively associated with HbA1c decreases, the costs of negatively associated complications (eg, severe hypoglycemic events) must be calculated separately.

Incremental costs associated with myocardial infarction and stroke in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: an overview for economic modeling

OBJECTIVE

To identify cost estimates related to myocardial infarction (MI) or stroke in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) for use in economic models.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was conducted. Electronic databases and conference abstracts were screened against inclusion criteria, which included studies performed in patients who had T2DM before experiencing an MI or stroke. Primary cost studies and economic models were included. Costs were converted to 2012 pounds sterling.

RESULTS

Fifty-four studies were identified: 13 primary cost studies and 41 economic evaluations using secondary sources for complication costs. Primary studies provided costs from 10 countries. Estimates for a fatal event ranged from £2482-£5222 for MI and from £4900-£6694 for stroke. Costs for the year a non-fatal event occurred ranged from £5071-£29,249 for MI and from £5171-£38,732 for stroke. Annual follow-up costs ranged from £945-£1616 for an MI and from £4704-£12,926 for a stroke. Economic evaluations from 12 countries were identified, and costs of complications showed similar variability to the primary studies.

DISCUSSION

The costs identified within primary studies varied between and within countries. Many studies used costs estimated in studies not specific to patients with T2DM. Data gaps included a detailed breakdown of resource use, which affected the ability to compare data across countries.

CONCLUSIONS

In the development of economic models for patients with T2DM, the use of accurate estimates of costs associated with MI and stroke is important. When country-specific costs are not available, clear justification for the choice of estimates should be provided.

Cost of Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose in Canada among Patients on an Insulin Regimen for Diabetes

INTRODUCTION

People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing a variety of medical conditions relative to those without diabetes, resulting in increased healthcare costs. Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) is accepted as a recommended element of effective diabetes self-management. However, little is known about the real-world frequency and actual expenditures associated with SMBG, as well as the impact of SMBG costs relative to the cost of diabetes treatments. The primary objective is to evaluate the real-world utilization and costs of SMBG tests in Canada among insulin-treated diabetes patients during a 12-month follow-up period.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the IMS Brogan Inc. Drug Plan database from July 1, 2006 through June 30, 2010. Total costs during the 12-month follow-up period were assessed, focusing on blood glucose (BG) testing strip costs, insulin therapy costs, and costs associated with oral antidiabetics medications. All prevalent patients with two or more prescriptions for insulin between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2009 were initially included in the analysis, the first prescription serving as their index date. Depending on the insulin type(s) used, patients were subcategorized into one of four insulin regimen groups (basal, bolus, premix, or basal-bolus).

RESULTS

Among an initial sample of patients with two or more claims for insulin between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2009, 142,551 met the aforementioned inclusion and exclusion criteria. An overall mean utilization of pharmacy-based blood glucose testing of approximately 1,094 strips per person per year was observed, with an average cost per testing strip of Canadian $0.79. SMBG treatment costs for insulin users ($860), specifically those associated with prescription testing strips, totaled 41.6% of the average annual pharmacy costs of diabetes-related prescriptions ($2,068).

CONCLUSION

This study shows that SMBG accounts for approximately 40% of the total diabetes-related pharmacy costs for insulin users.