Abstract
Objective
To evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of a 12‐week Exercise Physiology (EP) program for people living in a residential aged care facility.
Methods
A within‐study pre‐ and postintervention design to calculate incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios per quality‐adjusted life years gained. A health service provider perspective was used.
Results
Fifty‐nine participants enrolled in a 12‐week program. The program cost was A$514.30 per resident. At a willingness‐to‐pay threshold of A$64 000, the likelihood of being cost‐effective of the program is approximately 60%, due to a small increase in participants’ quality of life, as reported by care staff. The model showed great variance, depending on who rated the participants’ quality of life outcomes.
Conclusions
It is uncertain that a 12‐week EP program is cost‐effective based on the evidence of the current trial. However, it appears that a low‐cost program can produce small improvements for residents in care facilities.