Purpose:
The IMS Core Diabetes Model (CDM) was utilised to assess the cost-effectiveness of FreeStyle Libre® Flash Glucose Monitoring System (FreeStyle Libre System) vs. Self-Monitoring Blood Glucose (SMBG) in the Australian clinical setting, using a health care payer perspective. FreeStyle Libre System is a novel, sensor-based, factory-calibrated monitoring system that continuously measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid using wired enzyme technology. Data is wirelessly transferred from the 14-day adhesive sensor to a handheld reader.
Method:
The IMPACT randomised clinical trial provided key inputs to the IMS-CDM. It assessed the efficacy and safety of the FreeStyle Libre System in people with T1DM over 6 months and reflected real-world clinical practice in 120 people using the FreeStyle Libre System compared to 121 using SMBG. Literature derived utilities and a Sponsor commissioned Time-Trade-Off (TTO) study (1) were incorporated. The TTO study reported utilities of 0.882 vs 0.851 (p<0.0001), favouring the FreeStyle Libre System. A diminishing disutility associated with non-severe hypoglycaemic events (those not requiring 3rd party assistance) was applied (2). The model horizon was 50 years, with 5% annual discounting. Only direct costs were included.
Results:
The IMS-CDM showed a total of 9.74 QALYs using the FreeStyle Libre System, resulting in a base case ICER of A$39,786 per QALY which is within Australian cost-effectiveness thresholds.
Conclusion:
The FreeStyle Libre System is a cost-effective method of monitoring glucose in Australia.
Declarations: R. Hellmund is an employee of Abbott Diabetes Care. KMC Health Care were engaged by Abbott Diabetes Care to conduct this study.