Cost-benefit ratio of modern medical education using micro-costing: amodel calculation using the example of an innovative breast brachytherapy workshop.

Abstract

Radiation oncology is an essential component of therapeutic oncology and necessitates well-trained personnel. Multicatheter brachytherapy (MCBT) is one radiotherapeutic option for early-stage breast cancer treatment. However, specialized hands-on training for MCBT is not currently included in the curriculum for residents. Arecently developed hands-on brachytherapy workshop has demonstrated promising results in enhancing knowledge and practical skills. Nevertheless, these simulation-based teaching formats necessitate more time and financial resources. Our analyses include computational models for the implementation and delivery of this workshop and can serve as abasis for similar educational initiatives. This study aimed to assess the cost-effectiveness of apreviously developed and evaluated breast brachytherapy simulation workshop. Using amicro-costing approach, we estimated costs at adetailed level by considering supplies, soft- and hardware, and personnel time for each task. This method also allows for acomprehensive evaluation of the costs associated with implementing new medical techniques. The workshop costs were divided into two categories: development and workshop execution. The cost analysis was conducted on aper-participant basis, and the impact on knowledge improvement was measured using aquestionnaire. The total workshop costs were determined by considering the initial workshop setup expenses including the development and conceptualization of the course with all involved collaborators, as well as the costs incurred for each individual course. The workshop was found to be financially efficient, with aper-participant cost of € 39, considering the industrial sponsorship provided for brachytherapy equipment. In addition, we assessed the workshop's efficacy by analyzing participant feedback using Likert scale evaluations. The findings indicated anotable enhancement in both theoretical and practical skills among the participants. Moreover, the cost-to-benefit ratio (CBFR) analysis demonstrated aCBFR of € 13.53 for each Likert point increment. The hands-on brachytherapy workshop proved to be avaluable and approximately cost-effective educational program, leading to asignificant enhancement in the knowledge and skills of the participants. Without the support of industrial sponsorship, the costs would have been unattainable.