Introduction:
Strokes associated with atrial fibrillation (AF) are estimated to cost Medicare $8 billion annually. Advancements in stroke prevention are aimed at improving clinical outcomes and reducing healthcare costs. This analysis quantifies the budget impact to Medicare and Medicare beneficiaries of left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) with the Watchman Device compared to warfarin, the standard of care, and rivaroxaban, the most commonly prescribed new oral anticoagulant in the US, for stroke risk reduction in non-valvular AF.
Methods:
A budget impact model was developed from a Medicare perspective using 2.3-year data from PROTECT AF and relative risks from ROCKET AF. The model captured all costs of treatment and associated complications. Costs for stroke included acute, direct costs as well as long-term disability costs. Cost data were from 2014 US DRGs. Medicare deductibles and co-insurance rates were used in the patient analysis.
Results:
In addition to better net clinical outcomes (table), LAAC is cost neutral to Medicare relative to warfarin and rivaroxaban by year 5, and one third less costly than both by year 10. Treatment-related complications comprised 33% of LAAC total costs compared to 65% for rivaroxaban and 87% for warfarin at year 5. Patient out-of-pocket costs for LAAC were lower than warfarin and rivaroxaban at 2 and 3 years, respectively.
Conclusions:
Upfront LAAC procedural costs are offset by ongoing therapy and complication costs associated with warfarin and rivaroxaban. LAAC with Watchman represents an opportunity for improved clinical outcomes and substantial savings to both Medicare and Medicare beneficiaries.
Modification of the left atrial appendage and its role in stroke risk reduction with non-valvular atrial fibrillation
