Cost Utility of Pulmonary Tuberculosis Screening with Mobile Digital X-ray Vehicle

Abstract

At present, screening Tuberculosis. costs are rising, so we need to find ways to manage limited resources for maximum efficiency. This research is a cost analysis. The objective of this research was to assess the cost and utility of pulmonary tuberculosis screening with a mobile digital X-ray vehicle compared to a conventional X-ray examination. The study samples consisted of 330 people from 22 districts in Sisaket Province. The tool used was a questionnaire developed by the researcher. Start collecting data between November 1, 2021 to March 31, 2022. The statistics used in the data analysis were frequency, percentage, and Independent T-Test statistics. The results of the study showed that the majority (53.3%) were female. The elderly group (aged 60 years and over) received the most screening (45.2%). The direct medical cost of pulmonary tuberculosis screening by digital mobile X-ray vehicle cost is 135.57 baht lower than the conventional method (p-value <0.001). Direct costs that are not medical costs are travel expenses. Increased food costs and relative expenses Screening for pulmonary tuberculosis with a mobile digital X-ray vehicle was lower in cost, meanwhile, 6.48 (p-value =0.557), 16.00 (p-value =0.257), and 55.47 (p-value=0.111), respectively. The indirect utility using the digital mobile X-ray vehicle had a higher average score of 1.01 than the conventional model (p-value =0.002). Satisfaction with the digital mobile X-ray vehicle was 2.56 higher than the conventional model (p-value <0.001). Therefore, those involved should formulate policies that support the use of pulmonary tuberculosis screening methods appropriate to the provincial context.