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Research: WONDERLING and colleagues,
Listed in Issue 101
Abstract
WONDERLING and colleagues, Health Services Research Unit, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, David.Wonderling@lshtm.ac.uk, have analyzed the cost-effectiveness of a randomized controlled trial of acupuncture for chronic headache.
Background
In order to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of acupuncture as a treatment for chronic headache, the cost-effectiveness of a randomized controlled trial of acupuncture for headache was examined.
Methodology
401 patients with chronic headaches, predominantly migraine, were recruited from GP practices. They were randomly allocated to receive either up to 12 acupuncture treatments over three months in addition to standard care, or standard care. The main outcome measure was incremental cost per quality adjusted life year gained.
Results
Total cost of healthcare was higher for the acupuncture group because of the additional cost of the acupuncturists. Cost per quality adjusted life year gained calculated at just above £9,000 but dropped substantially when the analysis incorporated likely differences for the years after the trial.
Conclusion
Acupuncture for chronic headache improves health-related quality of life at a small additional cost. It is relatively cost-effective compared to other interventions provided by the NHS.
References
Wonderling D, Vickers AJ, Grieve R, McCarney R. Cost effectiveness analysis of a randomised trial of acupuncture for chronic headache in primary care. BMJ 328 (7442): 747, Mar 27, 2004.
Comment
The above research from a variety of international researchers indicates that acupuncture for headache is an effective and cost-effective treatment which also may improve patients' quality of life and diminish requirement for pain-relieving drugs.
