Cost-effectiveness of internet-based cognitive–behavioural therapy and physical exercise for depression. Issue 4 (16th July 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kraepelien, Martin; Mattsson, Simon; Hedman-Lagerlöf, Erik; Petersson, Ingemar F.; Forsell, Yvonne; Lindefors, Nils; Kaldo, Viktor
• Is Part Of: BJPsych open. Volume 4:Issue 4(2018)
• Page Start: 265
• Page End: 273
• Publication Date: 2018-07-16
• Subjects: Cognitive–behavioural therapies, -- cost-effectiveness, -- depressive disorders, -- randomised controlled trial, -- exercise; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; Mental health -- Periodicals; 616.89005
• DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2018.38
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2056-4724

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Both internet-based cognitive–behavioural therapy (ICBT) and physical exercise are alternatives to treatment as usual (TAU) in managing mild to moderate depression in primary care. Aims: To determine the cost-effectiveness of ICBT and physical exercise compared with TAU in primary care. Method: Economic evaluation of a randomised controlled trial ( N = 945) in Sweden. Costs were estimated by a service use questionnaire and used together with the effects on quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). The primary 3-month healthcare provider perspective in primary care was complemented by a 1-year societal perspective. Results: The primary analysis showed that incremental cost per QALY gain was €8817 for ICBT and €14 571 for physical exercise compared with TAU. At the established willingness-to-pay threshold of €21 536 (£20 000) per QALY, the probability of ICBT being cost-effective is 90%, and for physical exercise is 76%, compared with TAU. Conclusions: From a primary care perspective, both ICBT and physical exercise for depression are likely to be cost-effective compared with TAU. Declaration of interest: None.