Budget Impact Analysis for Proton Beam Therapy for pediatric population in Poland

Objective: Proton beam therapy (PBT) is increasingly used as an alternative radiotherapy for cancer. It is often used in cases where the position of the tumor in relation to critical structures, sensitive to radiation, significantly limits or prevents the use of classical radiotherapy. Use of the PBT minimizes long-term negative effects of radio-therapy, which is especially important in the treatment of children. The aim of the analysis was to assess the budget impact of using PBT from perspective of public payer in Poland. Methods: The analysis was carried out in a 3-year time horizon. Cost data reflect the estimated costs incurred by the public payer (NHF) in providing health benefits. The estimation of the financial consequences was based on the Polish current tariffs for the included health benefits. Sources of data, including patient population, were opin- ions of clinical experts, scientific evidence, NHF. Results: The analysis was carried out in the base, minimum and maximum scenario. In the base case 102 patients in 9 cancer indications were included. Total incremental costs were: €1.560 million, €1.769 million and €2.045 million in each year of analysis. There were no differences in the model parameters related to the costs of health services. Costs in the minimum scenario were approximately 30% lower and in the maximum scenario 10% higher than in the base case within 3 years. Conclusion: PBT generated additional cost for treatment of pediatric populations with 9 oncological indications for public payer in Poland. Our findings can be used by decision makers in Poland.