A health economic outcome evaluation of an internet-based mobile-supported stress management intervention for employees.

Ebert D, Kählke F, Buntrock C, Berking M, Smit F, Heber E, Baumeister H, Funk B, Riper H, Lehr D (2018)


Publication Status: Published

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2018

Journal

Book Volume: 44

Pages Range: 171-182

Journal Issue: 2

DOI: 10.5271/sjweh.3691

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to estimate and evaluate the cost-effectiveness and cost-benefit of a guided internet- and mobile-supported occupational stress-management intervention (iSMI) for employees from the employer's perspective alongside a randomized controlled trial. Methods A sample of 264 employees with elevated symptoms of perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale, PSS-10 ≥22) was randomly assigned either to the iSMI or a waitlist control (WLC) group with unrestricted access to treatment as usual. The iSMI consisted of seven sessions of problem-solving and emotion-regulation techniques and one booster session. Self-report data on symptoms of perceived stress and economic data were assessed at baseline, and at six months following randomization. A cost-benefit analysis (CBA) and a cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) with symptom-free status as the main outcome from the employer's perspective was carried out. Statistical uncertainty was estimated using bootstrapping (N=5000). Results The CBA yielded a net-benefit of EUR181 [95% confidence interval (CI) -6043-1042] per participant within the first six months following randomization. CEA showed that at a willingness-to-pay ceiling of EUR0, EUR1000, EUR2000 for one additional symptom free employee yielded a 67%, 90%, and 98% probability, respectively, of the intervention being cost-effective compared to the WLC. Conclusion The iSMI was cost-effective when compared to WLC and even lead to cost savings within the first six months after randomization. Offering stress-management interventions can present good value for money in occupational healthcare.

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How to cite

APA:

Ebert, D., Kählke, F., Buntrock, C., Berking, M., Smit, F., Heber, E.,... Lehr, D. (2018). A health economic outcome evaluation of an internet-based mobile-supported stress management intervention for employees. Scandinavian Journal of Work Environment & Health, 44(2), 171-182. https://doi.org/10.5271/sjweh.3691

MLA:

Ebert, David, et al. "A health economic outcome evaluation of an internet-based mobile-supported stress management intervention for employees." Scandinavian Journal of Work Environment & Health 44.2 (2018): 171-182.

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