Cost analysis of narrowband UVB phototherapy in psoriasis.

Abstract

There are few data available to health care providers regarding the costs of treating patients with psoriasis, and specifically the cost of phototherapy. As narrowband UVB (TL-01) has now become an established therapy for patients with psoriasis requiring phototherapy, we determined the annual cost of delivering TL-01 treatment in a university hospital. The costing evaluation was from a hospital perspective and the strategy used was a microcosting detailed collection of resources used. The annual cost of TL-01 treatment in our teaching hospital was 53,555.00 euros. Staffing accounted for 70% of the cost. The average individual costs were 325.00 euros (range: 57.20-972.40). These costs are significant but remain less expensive than inpatient treatment.