OBJECTIVES: In this study, we assess and compare the lifetime costs of early heart failure (HF) diagnosis followed by preventative treatment utilizing a novel strain-encoded cardiac magnetic resonance imaging test (MyoStrain) and the standard heart health monitoring imaging modality, echocardiogram (ECHO).

METHODS: We modeled outcomes and costs for a hypothetical cohort of patients at risk for heart failure, previously screened by Charleston Comorbidity Index (CCI) with a score of 3+ on the index scale. A state-transition (Markov) model included disease progression states from early HF until death, had a lifetime horizon, and was based on a typical U.S. health payer perspective. Comprehensive literature review provided the input data for test accuracy and long-term prognosis. Cost data were derived from the U.S. based hospital database costs and literature.

RESULTS: MyoStrain diagnostic test strategy showed a dominant cost effectiveness compared to ECHO and improved the quality of life in patients with a high risk for developing HF.

CONCLUSIONS: Our approach to use MyoStrain to investigate patients who present with the CCI index of 3+ reduces the cost of heart failure significantly and improves quality of life.