Do health economic evaluations using observational data provide reliable assessment of treatment effects?

ABSTRACT: Economic evaluation in modern health care systems is seen as a transparent scientific framework that can be used to advance progress towards improvements in population health at the best possible value. Despite the perceived superiority that trial-based studies have in terms of internal validity, economic evaluations often employ observational data. In this review, the interface between econometrics and economic evaluation is explored, with emphasis placed on highlighting methodological issues relating to the evaluation of cost-effectiveness within a bivariate framework. Studies that satisfied the eligibility criteria exemplified the use of matching, regression analysis, propensity scores, instrumental variables, as well as difference-in-differences approaches. All studies were reviewed an

SUBMITTER: Rovithis D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3848127 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature