This study aimed to develop and evaluate a cost-savings model to estimate the economic impact of early screening and intervention for language disorders (LDs) among children in Saudi Arabia. A comparative cost-savings analysis was conducted to estimate the long-term economic implications of implementing early screening and intervention programs versus no intervention. The model focuses on children from birth and estimates the consequences across the life course into adulthood. Key cost components included screening and comprehensive assessment expenses, 2 years of special education services, after-school support, and the opportunity cost associated with maternal income loss due to caregiving responsibilities. All estimates were based on projected national assumptions and expressed in Saudi riyals (SAR). The projected lifetime cost per child without early screening or intervention was SAR 2.77 million, whereas the projected lifetime cost per child with early intervention was SAR 546,356. Implementing early screening and intervention yielded sixfold return on investment, largely due to reduced long-term educational costs and increased adult earning potential. The findings indicate substantial economic benefits of early identification and treatment of LDs in Saudi Arabia. The model suggests promising evidence for policymakers to invest in early screening and intervention initiatives as a cost-effective strategy to enhance educational and social outcomes.
Alsulaiman et al. (Thu,) studied this question.