The Cost Effectiveness of AFib Screenings

Do you know that atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common heart rhythm problem? On top of that, it’s also extremely dangerous — this often asymptomatic condition increases risk of stroke fivefold. Not to mention that strokes related to AFib are typically more severe and result in greater functional problems compared to strokes with no link to AFib.

Doctors and medical facilities may not screen for atrial fibrillation unless a person exhibits signs of the condition. When no symptoms are present, it doesn’t necessarily mean a person at risk for AFib doesn’t have the condition — it just means they don’t have any noticeable symptoms. Atrial fibrillation screenings cover that gap by offering screenings for people with stroke, atrial fibrillation or carotid artery disease risk factors.

Some individuals may assume that going to a health screening provided by a third-party and not their primary doctor must be expensive. This is especially true if they hear the screening won’t be covered by their health insurance. However, an Irish health authority, the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) found that most atrial fibrillation screenings are very cost-effective.

According to the evidence from the Hiqa findings, the “annual opportunistic pulse palpation for those aged 65 and older is expected to lead to reductions in the incidence and severity of atrial fibrillation-related strokes,” said Máirín Ryan, Hiqa’s director of health technology assessment, in an Irish Examiner article.

Overall, the potential benefits of an atrial fibrillation screening highly outweigh the low price. If atrial fibrillation is caught early and treated properly, strokes can be prevented. This can result in massive cost savings resulting from a decrease in stroke incidence. The medical expenses associated with a stroke and its resulting physical consequences (sometimes life-long) can be prevented altogether.

Life Line Screening offers multiple health screening packages from a variety of price ranges. Some of the packages are prices as low as $199, and the company frequently offers promotions and coupons for further discounts.

Life Line Screening’s atrial fibrillation screening is a non-invasive procedure used to detect irregular heartbeat. It is performed by attaching EKG electrodes above the wrists and ankles and is recommended for those with certain risk factors, which include:

• High blood pressure
• Overactive thyroid
• Smoking
• Heavy alcohol or caffeine consumption
• Extreme stress or fatigue
• Heart disease
• Lung disease
• Obesity
• Sleep apnea
• Diabetes

In honor of Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Month, learn more about our Atrial Fibrillation Screening today.