Health Economics and Outcomes Research Knowledge Needs Assessment for Latin America

Area of Science:

• Health Economics and Outcomes Research (HEOR)
• Pharmacoeconomics
• Health Policy

Background:

• Growing recognition of Health Economics and Outcomes Research (HEOR) expertise in Latin America.
• Lack of studies assessing HEOR knowledge levels and gaps in the region.
• Need to understand current HEOR skill sets among professionals and students.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate perceived knowledge levels in HEOR across Latin America.
• To identify specific HEOR knowledge gaps within the region.
• To inform the development of targeted HEOR educational initiatives.

Main Methods:

• An online needs assessment survey was distributed to members of the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) in Latin America.
• Survey data collected information on perceived knowledge levels, knowledge gaps, and preferred educational formats.
• Descriptive statistics were used to analyze survey responses using Microsoft Excel.

Main Results:

• 106 participants completed the survey, revealing varying knowledge levels in HEOR.
• The most significant knowledge gap identified was in methods for integrating medication adherence and persistence in health economic evaluations.
• Respondents overwhelmingly preferred online learning and continuing education programs for HEOR training (74%).

Conclusions:

• The assessment identified key HEOR knowledge gaps among ISPOR members in Latin America.
• Data strongly support the development of educational programs focusing on areas with the highest perceived knowledge deficits.
• Addressing these gaps is crucial for advancing HEOR practice and research in the region.