Implantation of the portable elastomeric infuser for patients with advanced colorectal cancer and with indication for 5-fluorouracil protocols in continuous infusion as an alternative to reduce costs in the SUS

Abstract

Introduction: Due to the difficulty of hospitalization beds in the Unified Health System (SUS) and the non-availability of outpatient administration of the most indicated regimens for the treatment of Advanced Colorectal Cancer (RCC). Physicians end up opting for less effective regimens or with a higher toxicity profile. Failure to provide effective treatment can increase health costs. Objective: To evaluate the costs of outpatient administration of the treatment protocol for RCC with 5-Fluorouracil in continuous infusion in an Oncology unit of the SUS, through the implantation of the portable elastomeric infusion for home use compared to hospital treatment. Methodology: A cost-minimization study (MCA) was conducted through qualitative and quantitative analysis of comparison of direct costs associated with alternatives: Outpatient administration with the use of portable infuser and hospital treatment. Results: The costs of materials and medications for the FOLFOX6 therapeutic regimen, administered in an outpatient unit using the device, had an additional cost of R$ 235.24 per treatment cycle when compared to the hospitalized patient. However, when the values reimbursed by the SUS were added with the procedures, the total cost of treatment was R$ 8,794.44 for outpatient treatment and R$ 17,796.25 for hospital treatment, with a 49.42% reduction in costs with outpatient administration. Conclusion: The incorporation of the Portable Infusor in regimens containing 5-FU in continuous infusion for patients diagnosed with Advanced RCC may be a strategy to minimize the costs of treatment in the (SUS).