Assessment of the Cost-Effectiveness and Cost-Utility of Health Expenditure on Operative Cardiac Patients in Zambia

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of mortality globally, disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income countries like Zambia. This study evaluates the cost-effectiveness and cost-utility of government health expenditure on operative cardiac patients at Zambia's National Heart Hospital. Utilizing a quantitative research approach and retrospective cohort design, the study analyzed economic viability through metrics such as incremental cost effectiveness ratios (ICERs) and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). Data were collected from 70 operative cardiac patients, assessing direct medical costs, societal burdens, and clinical outcomes. The results reveal significant variability in cost-effectiveness across different cardiac conditions. Interventions for mitral stenosis and sternal cleft were found to be highly cost-effective, while conditions such as atrial and ventricular septal defects presented data gaps, limiting comprehensive analysis. The findings highlight the importance of robust economic evaluations in resource-limited settings, offering insights into optimal resource allocation and prioritization in cardiac care. This study informs healthcare policy by providing evidence-based recommendations for improving the efficiency and equity of health expenditures. The research supports Zambia's national goals of achieving universal health coverage and reducing the cardiovascular disease burden. These insights emphasize the need for sustained investments in cardiac care infrastructure and workforce development to ensure a cost-effective and sustainable healthcare system.