Making the case for cost-effectiveness research

Abstract

Cost-effectiveness research is a component of clinical outcomes that addresses both cost and outcomes simultaneously, providing an understanding of what incremental costs, if any, are required for better clinical outcomes. In the current health care climate, these analyses are increasingly performed, and critical, as practitioners must optimize patient care at lower costs. This review discusses cost effectiveness research, its utilization in surgical oncology, and future opportunities provided by its methodologies.

Keywords: comparative; cost effectiveness; effectiveness; outcomes research.