Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This paper aims to describe the development and application of a cost tool to help predict return on investment and sustainability of the Healthy Weight Clinic Family Healthy Weight Program (FHWP) through insurance reimbursement. METHODS: Case studies to apply the cost tool were conducted with 3 sites to assess the break-even point for clinic patient volume (i.e., financial neutral point: operational costs = revenue) during implementation. Financial neutral points were based on average reimbursement rates per health centre. RESULTS: The annual fixed cost of the intervention ranged from $65 252 to $79 024. The average revenue ranged from $806-$1663 per patient through medical reimbursement, and the clinics needed to care for an average of 37-81 patients annually to break even. CONCLUSIONS: Use of an adaptable cost tool that captures reimbursement of clinical provider time and a minimum stream of clinical volume can equip decision-makers in planning financially to implement and sustain a clinically based FHWP.