The efficacy and cost-effectiveness of a community weight management intervention: a randomized controlled trial of the health weight management demonstration.

PURPOSE: The study investigated the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of a cognitive-behavioral weight management program, complemented by an interactive Web site and brief telephone/e-mail coaching. METHODS: In 2006-2007, 1755 overweight, non-active-duty TRICARE beneficiaries were randomized to one of three conditions with increasing intervention intensity: written materials and basic Web access (RCT1), plus an interactive Web site (RCT2), plus brief telephone/e-mail coaching support (RCT3). The study assessed changes in weight, blood pressure, and physical activity from baseline to 6, 12, and 15-18 months. (Study retention was 31% at 12 months.) Average and incremental cost-effectiveness and cost-offset analyses were conducted. RESULTS: Participants experienced significant weight loss (-4.0%, -4.0%, and -5.3%, respectively, in each RCT group after 12 months and -3.5%, -3.8%, and -5.1%, respectively, after 15 to 18 months), increased physical activity, and decreased blood pressure. Cost-effectiveness ratios were $900 to $1100/quality-adjusted life year (QALY) for RCT1 and RCT2 and $1900/QALY for RCT3. The cost recovery period to the government was 3 years for RCTs 1 and 2 and 6 years for RCT3. CONCLUSION: A relatively inexpensive cognitive-behavioral weight management intervention improved patient outcomes. Extrapolation of savings for the entire TRICARE population would significantly reduce direct medical costs.

A survey of mild traumatic brain injury treatment in the emergency room and primary care medical clinics.

This study surveyed health care providers about their evaluation and treatment of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) in adults. We presented two vignettes describing mild TBI cases to staff in the emergency department (N = 22) and primary care clinics (N = 16) at Wilford Hall Air Force Medical Center and asked how they would evaluate and treat these patients. Most providers said they would assess visual changes, nausea/vomiting, headache, and neck pain. More emergency department personnel than primary care clinic providers would make referrals to different specialties, whereas more primary care clinic providers would schedule a follow-up appointment. Neither group of providers mentioned assessing common postconcussive symptoms of fatigue, emotional changes, and problems sleeping. Comparing findings to current literature suggest that added focus on emotional, cognitive and psychosocial factors, and education of the patient and family could improve early identification of mild TBI patients at risk for poor recovery.