Antenatal magnesium sulphate for preventing cerebral palsy: An economic evaluation of the impact of a quality improvement program. (29th November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Keir, Amy; Rumbold, Alice; Shepherd, Emily; Mcintyre, Sarah; Groves, Charlotte; Cavallaro, Angela; Crowther, Caroline; Callander, Emily
• Is Part Of: Australian and New Zealand journal of obstetrics and gynaecology. Volume 62:Number 1(2022)
• Page Start: 168
• Page End: 171
• Publication Date: 2021-11-29
• Subjects: magnesium sulphate -- cerebral palsy -- quality improvement -- cost‐benefit analysis; Obstetrics -- Periodicals; Gynecology -- Periodicals; 618.05
• DOI: 10.1111/ajo.13459
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0004-8666

Abstract

Abstract : Previous work demonstrated that implementing a quality improvement (QI) program improves the uptake of guideline‐recommended antenatal magnesium sulphate, a critical intervention known to reduce cerebral palsy risk. Here we estimate potential cost savings attributable to the improved uptake. By expanding coverage from 63 to 83% of eligible women, we estimated that five children potentially would not have received a diagnosis of cerebral palsy, a potential cost saving of $AU4.8 million in lifetime healthcare costs. Our findings strengthen the case for embedding QI approaches in perinatal care to reduce the incidence of cerebral palsy.