Making the business case for coverage of family-based behavioral group interventions for pediatric obesity

Background Pediatric obesity presents a significant burden. However, family-based behavioral group (FBBG) obesity interventions are largely uncovered by our health care system. The present study uses Return on Investment (ROI) and Internal Rate of Return (IRR) analyses to analyze the business side of FBBG interventions. Methods ROI and IRR were calculated to determine longitudinal cost-effectiveness of a FBBG intervention. Multiple simulations of cost savings are projected using three estimated trajectories of weight change and variations in assumptions. Results The baseline model of child savings gives an average IRR of 0.2% 6 0.08% and an average ROI of 20.8% 6 0.4%, which represents a break-even IRR and a positive ROI. More pessimistic simulations result in negative IRR values. Conclusions Under certain assumptions, FBBGs offer a break-even proposition. Results are limited by lack of data regarding several assumptions, and future research should evaluate changes in cost savings following changes in child and adult weight.