Cost analysis of narrowband UVB phototherapy in psoriasis.

BACKGROUND: There are few data available to health care providers regarding the costs of treating patients with psoriasis, and specifically the cost of phototherapy. OBJECTIVES: As narrowband UVB (TL-01) has now become an established therapy for patients with psoriasis requiring phototherapy, we determined the annual cost of delivering TL-01 treatment in a university hospital. METHODS: The costing evaluation was from a hospital perspective and the strategy used was a microcosting detailed collection of resources used. RESULTS: The annual cost of TL-01 treatment in our teaching hospital was 53,555.00 euros. Staffing accounted for 70% of the cost. The average individual costs were 325.00 euros (range: 57.20-972.40). CONCLUSION: These costs are significant but remain less expensive than inpatient treatment.