Classification of evidence in decision-analytic models of cost-effectiveness: a content analysis of published reports

The aim of this study was to assess systematically the scope of evidence and purposes for which evidence is used in decision-analytic models of cost-effectiveness and to assess the implications for search methods.

A content analysis of published reports of models was undertaken. Details of cited sources were extracted and categorized according to three dimensions; type of information provided by the evidence, type of source from which the evidence was drawn and type of modeling activity supported by the evidence. The analysis was used to generate a classification of evidence. Relationships within and between the categories within the classification were sought and the implications for searching considered.

The classification generated fourteen types of information, seven types of sources of evidence and five modeling activities supported by evidence. A broad range of evidence was identified drawn from a diverse range of sources including both research-based and non-research-based sources. The use of evidence was not restricted to the population of model parameters but was used to inform the development of the modeling framework and to justify the analytical and methodological approach.

Decision-analytic models use evidence to support all aspects of model development. The classification of evidence defines in depth the role of evidence in modeling. It can be used to inform the systematic identification of evidence.