Cost study of the eosin-5'-maleimide test

The 5'-maleimide azide (EMA) test is used to screen for hereditary spherocytosis. The aim of this work is to calculate the actual cost of the EMA test per CMF and to determine the B rating of this test within the nomenclature of clinical biology procedures. The calculation of the cost of the 'EMA test' was carried out at the CMF unit with the collaboration of the collection department of the Hedi Chaker University Hospital. This is a calculation of the direct cost with its fixed and variable expenses. It took into account the sampling and control sections, the NFS, consumables and reagents, depreciation of equipment, human resources and buildings, based on the technical data sheet and procedures of the cytometry unit. The cost was 241,558 DT compared to 134,640 DT, or 22 euros in France. This document is a well-argued case that will serve as a reference for invoicing this test and as a basis for negotiation with the CNAM for possible coverage of this examination. This calculation does not, however, take intangible costs into consideration. The calculation of the B rating for this test will be a first in the nomenclature of medical biology procedures.