Cost-Effectiveness of Preventing Hip Fractures by Hip Protectors in Elderly Institutionalized Residents in Germany

Objective: To determine the long-term cost-effectiveness of hip protector use in the prevention of hip fractures in elderly institutionalized residents in Germany compared to no prevention. Methods: A lifetime Markov decision model was developed using published data on costs and health outcomes. A societal and statutory health insurance perspective was adopted. Results: From a societal/statutory health insurance perspective, use of hip protectors yields savings of 315 EURO/257 EURO and a gain of 0.13 quality-adjusted life years per person over lifetime. Conclusion: Hip protector use in elderly institutionalized residents in Germany is highly cost-effective.