A cost-benefit analysis of immunization for pneumococcal pneumonia

Abstract

To determine whether immunization against pneumococcal (Streptococcus pneumoniae) pneumonia could be justified on the basis of a favorable benefit to cost ratio, the projected impact of a program of pneumococcal vaccination on the population of a health maintenance organization was evaluated. Retrospective data on average provider and patient costs associated with episodes of pneumococcal pneumonia were coupled with forecasts of the likely effectiveness of currently available vaccine and its impact on anticipated incidence of pneumonia. When provider-centered and patient-centered costs and benefits were added, a program of immunizing those traditionally considered to be a high risk of contracting pneumococcal pneumonia (50 yr of age and older; patients with chronic diseases of the heart, liver, lungs or kidneys: and those with diabetes mellitus) was found to be justified on a cost-benefit basis.