Research into the use of health economics in decision making in the United Kingdom--Phase II. Is health economics 'for good or evil'?

Abstract

The purpose of this phased research project is to better understand the role of health economic arguments in the decision making process of healthcare providers and purchasers in the United Kingdom. Phase I of the research was directed at General Practitioners (GPs); in phase II we broadened the scope of the research to include different agents who influence resource allocation and the wider health care environment. The objective of phase II was to determine the relevance and appeal of diverse health economic measures to different decision makers. This phase of qualitative research involved 34 decision makers in 17 duo interviews. The study has provided a rich source of qualitative evidence on the role of health economics in decision making. The main conclusions to emerge are; different individuals seek different outcomes; health economic studies should report actionable conclusions; and any cost savings must be applicable. To succeed, economists need to demonstrate a better understanding of the contracting and budgetary processes of the National Health Service. Opinions of the value of health economic evaluations varied widely, however most respondents believed it would become increasingly influential in the prioritisation process in the National Health Service of the future.