Case finding for hepatitis C in primary care: a cost utility analysis

Results. Few estimates of the uptake of HCV testing in primary care are available. Cost utility was estimated at around £16000/QALY for both scenarios. At a willingness to pay of £30000/ QALY, there is approximately a 75% probability that the initiatives would be cost-effective. Choices regarding the utility data, discounting and the rates of spontaneous/re-presentation outside of a case-finding programme appear to be important areas of uncertainty in this model. Conclusion. Case finding for HCV in primary care is likely to be considered cost-effective but substantial uncertainties remain. Further research is needed on different approaches to case finding in primary care.