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Principles of cost-effectiveness research.
T G Ganiats1, L J Schneiderman
1Division of Family Medicine, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla 92093.
The Journal of Family Practice
|July 1, 1988
Summary
Cost-effectiveness research has advanced, evaluating both financial and non-financial costs and benefits. Key considerations include direct costs, future expenses, averted medical costs, and ethical issues, ensuring program value justifies the investment.
Area of Science:
- Health Economics
- Program Evaluation
- Decision Analysis
Background:
- Cost-effectiveness evaluation techniques have significantly improved due to theoretical advances.
- Effective programs involve quantifiable dollar costs/benefits and non-dollar costs/benefits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline key elements and considerations in modern cost-effectiveness research.
- To highlight the ongoing controversies and ethical issues in cost-effectiveness studies.
Main Methods:
- Evaluation of direct program costs.
- Assessment of future workup and treatment costs.
- Analysis of complications, averted medical costs, and discounting.
- Inclusion of sensitivity analysis.
Main Results:
- Cost studies weigh various costs and benefits to determine program value.
- Key elements like direct costs, future expenses, and discounting are crucial.
- Sensitivity analysis is vital for robust evaluation.
Conclusions:
- Recent theoretical advances enhance cost-effectiveness research methods.
- Comprehensive evaluation must include direct, future, and non-dollar costs and benefits.
- Ethical considerations remain a significant aspect of cost-effectiveness research.
Keywords:
Health Care and Public Health