Principles of cost-effectiveness research.

摘要: Recent advances in the theoretical concepts behind cost-effectiveness evaluation have led to a marked improvement of techniques used research. Any effective program will not only dollar costs and benefits but also nondollar benefits. Cost studies evaluate relative weights these determine whether program's value is worth expense. Key elements consider include direct program, future workup treatment, evaluating treating complications resulting from medical averted, discounting health effects, sensitivity analysis. Despite recent advances, research raises multiple controversies, including some key ethical issues.