Accuracy of terminology and methodology in economic analyses in otolaryngology

Economic studies increasingly guide health care resource allocation decisions. Because rigorous adherence to accepted definitions and research techniques is critical to ensure accuracy, we evaluated the terminology and methods of otolaryngology economic analyses.

A total of 71 articles published from 1990 to 1999 in 6 peer-reviewed otolaryngology journals with terms such as "cost-effective" in their title or representing economic analyses were reviewed for terminology and use of established methodology guidelines.

Over half (35 of 66) of terms such as "cost-effective" were used incorrectly, and 60% of articles (39 of 64) confused "charge" and "cost" data. Eleven percent (7 of 64) of papers specified the perspective of their analysis. About half (17 of 30) reported a summary measure such as a cost-effectiveness ratio. Only one third (23 of 63) performed sensitivity analyses.

Adherence to accepted definitions and research methods is inconsistent, although we did note moderate improvements in making the distinction between costs and charges, defining of study perspective, and performing sensitivity analysis.

Greater attention to both terminology and methodology can enhance the quality of economic analyses and ultimately improve certain resource allocation decisions.