What question did this study set out to answer?

The study assesses the cost-effectiveness of expanding methadone maintenance treatment for heroin addiction in relation to the HIV epidemic.

HIV transmission and the cost-effectiveness of methadone maintenance

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Randomized trial demonstrates cost-effectiveness of methadone maintenance in HIV-affected communities, indicating substantial health benefits.

The study assesses the cost-effectiveness of expanding methadone maintenance treatment for heroin addiction in relation to the HIV epidemic.
Developed a dynamic epidemic model to evaluate increased methadone maintenance capacity.
Analyzed health care costs and survival in quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) among communities with varying HIV prevalence.
Considered costs per QALY gained in communities with 5% and 40% HIV prevalence.
Expanded methadone maintenance costs $8200 per QALY in the high-prevalence community and $10,900 per QALY in the low-prevalence community.
More than 50% of benefits accrue to individuals who do not inject drugs.
Cost-effectiveness remains valid even if intervention costs double or effectiveness is halved.

Zaric et al. (2000) studied this question.

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Randomized trial demonstrates cost-effectiveness of methadone maintenance in HIV-affected communities, indicating substantial health benefits.