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Research: WONDERLING and others,
Listed in Issue 113
Abstract
WONDERLING and others, 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 acupuncture for chronic headache.
Background
The aim of the study was to analyze the cost-effectiveness of acupuncture for chronic headache in primary care through the analysis of a randomized trial.
Methodology
401 patients presenting to GP practices in England and Wales with chronic headache, predominantly migraine, were randomized to receive either 12 acupuncture treatments over a period of 3 months or standard care. The incremental cost per quality adjusted life year gained was measured.
Results
Total costs were on average higher for the acupuncture group because of the cost of the acupuncturist (£403 per year compared to £217 for the control group). The cost was estimated to be £9180 per quality adjusted life year gained for the first year, and this estimate was expected to drop in subsequent years because of the longer-term effects of the acupuncture.
Conclusion
Acupuncture for chronic headache improves the quality of life at a small additional cost. It is relatively cost effective compared with other interventions provided by the NHS.
References
Wonderling D, Vickers AJ, Grieve R, McCarney R. Cost effectiveness analysis of a randomized trial of acupuncture for chronic headache in primary care. British Medical Journal 328 (7442): 747, Mar 27, 2004.
Comment
The above two studies are derived from the same research study; one describes the clinical effectiveness of acupuncture for chronic headache, the other cost-effectiveness of acupuncture for chronic headache. This is truly publication mileage – how to stretch the most out of research.
