The Bloody Truth: Exploring the cost-effectiveness of adult hemophilia in British-Columbia

Severe forms of bleeding disorders are on the rise across the country and the ability to properly identify, monitor and manage this group is important not only for their future health outcomes, but also to contain the cost of expensive blood products and long-term care. Through policy innovation there is potential to improve the effectiveness of care in British Columbia at modest increase in cost. This study undertakes qualitative interviews, a detailed cost analysis of options and case studies. Findings from interviews suggest concerns over inadequate present human resources in the St. Paul’s hemophilia centre, inadequate interaction between patient and staff, and inadequate patient education on prophylactic care. The outcome of the analysis indicates that some increase in human resources would provide benefits at modest incremental cost, and generate some offsetting cost savings.