[Roaming through methodology. XIX. Cost-effectiveness ratios].
A number of aspects must be kept in mind when interpreting cost-effectiveness ratios; it is important to realise, for example, that a cost-effectiveness ratio is a relative and not an absolute measure of efficiency. A cost-effectiveness ratio always involves a comparison of two interventions; therefore, the choice of the competing alternative has great impact on the reported, 'incremental', cost-effectiveness ratio and requires careful study. Furthermore, a cost-effectiveness ratio is meant to support a choice or decision. A check must be done to see whether the study context and the resulting cost-effectiveness ratio are appropriate for the choice or decision under consideration.
Erasmus Universiteit, Institute for Medical Technology Assessment, Rotterdam. f.rutten@bmg.eur.nl
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D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D006801:Humans; D009426:Netherlands; D012106:Research / Q000191:economics*; D012107:Research Design