Antenatal magnesium sulphate for preventing cerebral palsy: An economic evaluation of the impact of a quality improvement program

Amy Keir, Alice Rumbold, Emily Shepherd, Sarah Mcintyre, Charlotte Groves, Angela Cavallaro, Caroline Crowther, Emily Callander

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

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.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)168-171
Number of pages4
JournalAustralian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Volume62
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished or Issued - Feb 2022

Keywords

  • cerebral palsy
  • cost-benefit analysis
  • magnesium sulphate
  • quality improvement

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Obstetrics and Gynaecology

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