Cost-minimization analysis of teledermatology versus conventional care in the Brazilian National Health System

Cost-minimization analysis (CMA) comparing the teledermatology service of the State of Santa Catarina, Brazil with the provision of conventional care, from the societal perspective. All costs related to direct patient care were considered in calculation of outpatient costs. The evaluation was performed using the parameters avoided referrals and profile of hospitalizations. The economic analysis was developed through a decision tree. Totally, 40% of 79,411 tests performed could be managed in primary care, avoiding commuting and expanding the patients’ access. The CMA showed the teledermatology service had a cost per patient of US$196.04, and the conventional care of US$245.66. In this scenario, teledermatology proved to be a cost-saving alternative to conventional care, reducing commuting costs. Diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases through teledermatology avoid patient referrals, improves accessibility to specialized care, as well as the skin care provided by physicians. This study compared the costs of the teledermatology service of the State of Santa Catarina, Brazil with the costs of the provision of conventional care, to check which of them was more efficient. All costs related to direct patient care were considered in the calculation of costs. Totally, 40% of 79,411 dermatological tests performed could be locally managed in primary care, avoiding commuting, and expanding the patients’ access to care. The teledermatology service had a cost per patient of US$196.04, compared with the cost of conventional care of US$245.66. In this evaluation, teledermatology proved to be cheaper than conventional care, reducing commuting costs.