In-depth analysis of cost structure for electroconvulsive therapy in a performance-based hospital budget

Objective New medical guideline recommendations for the treatment of major depressive disorders and regulative changes in the payment system of the German mental health care system warrant a revision of the framework in which electroconvulsive therapies (ECT) are offered. Methods A cost structure analysis of the clinical resources essential for the ECT procedure was conducted and economically validated, exemplified at a German inpatient ECT treatment center. Results The identification of directly attributable costs to the ECT intervention presupposes an accurate assessment of personnel engagement time and material consumption as well as an inclusion of overhead costs for the operational readiness of the hospital. Conclusion The increasing importance of ECT in the clinical portfolio of therapy options demands an adequate refunding to support the expansion of this highly effective treatment. For the calculation of an appropriate reimbursement for ECT and ascertaining an acceptable contribution, a detailed knowledge of personnel costs and infrastructure settings of the respective hospitals is required.