Cost‐effectiveness of increased telephone contact for patients with osteoarthritis: A randomized, controlled trial

Abstract

Objective. To evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of telephone intervention for patients with osteoarthritis. Methods. Randomized, controlled trial. Results. The intervention did not significantly increase health care costs. The annual costs for a 1‐unit improvement in physical functioning and in pain, as measured by the Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales, were $70.86 and $31.00, respectively. Conclusion. Telephone contact is a potentially cost‐effective intervention in osteoarthritis.