Cost-effectiveness of IGRA/QFT-Plus for TB screening of migrants in Oman

Abstract

Objective: To estimate the cost of a screening program for identifying latent tuberculosis (TB) infections in migrants to Oman. Methods: A Markov model was used to estimate the cost of screening using an interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) applied to all migrants from high TB endemic countries, followed by preventive TB treatment. Results: The model compared seven different scenarios, with a comparison of the direct cost and the quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) saved. Conclusions: IGRA testing followed by 3 months of preventive treatment with rifapentine/isoniazid (3HP) was the most cost-effective intervention. Keywords: Latent tuberculosis, Screening, Cost, DAILYs