Economics of low-molecular weight heparins
Low-molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) have become attractive alternatives to standard unfractionated heparin (UFH) for the treatment and prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and for the management of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The economic impact of the use of LMWHs has been studied in randomized controlled studies, in demonstration projects in managed care institutions, and in decision models. These studies provide valuable insight into the ways LMWHs can be economically attractive despite higher per unit costs compared with UFH. For the treatment of DVT, the cost benefit of using LMWHs results primarily from the cost shifting from inpatient to outpatient care, and might be limited by the eligibility of patients for outpatient management. In contrast, the attractiveness of LMWHs for ACS and DVT prophylaxis hinges on the increased effectiveness of LMWHs compared with standard UFH.
Duke Scholars
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- Health Policy & Services
- 4203 Health services and systems
- 1117 Public Health and Health Services
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Published In
ISSN
Publication Date
Volume
Issue
Related Subject Headings
- Health Policy & Services
- 4203 Health services and systems
- 1117 Public Health and Health Services