BACKGROUND: In 2000, the World Health Organization recommended implementation of universal hearing screening. The Philippines enacted this policy into law in 2009 as it was found to be cost-effective for the Philippines. The model at the time used a hospital-based approached to screening. This paper examines the cost-effectiveness and budget impact of implementing a community-based universal hearing screening program.
METHODS: A model was developed following a community-based hearing screening program. Parameters were obtained through literature review, secondary data analysis, and consultation with experts. Cost-effectiveness was assessed for a single birth cohort from a public payer and societal perspective.
RESULTS: A community-based universal hearing screening program was found to be cost-saving. One-way sensitivity analysis showed that results were sensitive only to treatment rate and follow-up rate. The program is also a high budget impact program.
CONCLUSION: A community-based hearing screening program is cost-saving for the Philippines. Ensuring treatment and good follow-up in testing will ensure cost-effectiveness.