Knowledge, perception and application of pharmacoeconomics among healthcare professionals in Malaysia

Pharmacoeconomics (PE) is essential in optimizing healthcare resource allocation and ensuring cost-effective treatment decisions. Despite its recognized importance, limited evidence exists regarding healthcare professionals' understanding and application of PE in Malaysia. This study assessed the knowledge, perception, and application of PE among healthcare professionals within the Ministry of Health (MOH) Malaysia.

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among MOH healthcare professionals. The survey captured demographic characteristics, familiarity with PE, self-reported knowledge, perception of its importance, and its application in clinical and formulary decision-making. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the findings.

A total of 754 respondents completed the survey, comprising pharmacists (71.5%), doctors (24.3%) and other healthcare professionals (4.2%). While 63.7% reported familiarity with PE, substantial knowledge gaps were observed, particularly in cost-utility and cost-effectiveness analyses. PE application was most prevalent in budget impact assessments for formulary decisions. Notably, 94.8% of Drug and Therapeutics Committee members recognized the importance of PE in decision-making, and 96.9% supported the need for dedicated personnel with PE competency.

PE knowledge and application varied across MOH healthcare professionals, underscoring the need for targeted training and capacity building to strengthen PE competency, ultimately supporting evidence-informed, cost-effective healthcare decision-making in Malaysia.