Analytical approach:
An epidemiological model was developed to facilitate the synthesis of the cost and outcome data from published sources. The time horizon was 26 weeks. The authors did not report the study perspective.
Effectiveness data:
The effectiveness data came from a variety of sources. The fall rates with or without the intervention provided the key measure of effectiveness and these data were from a Cochrane review that identified four trials. Other sources included an Australian randomised controlled trial, which provided the uptake rate for the intervention, and two Australian prospective studies, which provided the proportion of falls that required hospitalisation.
Monetary benefit and utility valuations:
Not relevant.
Measure of benefit:
The total fall rates and fall-related hospitalisations prevented were the summary measures of benefit.
Cost data:
The economic analysis included the costs for the Tai Chi leader, venue, music licence, advertising, and administration. These costs were from a variety of sources. For example, the Tai Chi leader costs were from a provider of Tai Chi classes, and advertising costs were from local newspapers. All costs were reported in 2009 Australian dollars (AUD).
Analysis of uncertainty:
A one-way sensitivity analysis was performed varying the key model parameters, including the number of people taking up the intervention and the hospitalisation rate.