MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'The European Journal of Health Economics' source. Sun, 21 Mar 2010 16:47:58 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3386697&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F0wn3l4j6460n4838%2F Conclusion  The overall structure of the models reviewed was sound. However, they should include more systematically cardiovascular events and intracranial hemorrhage, as well as local epidemiological data. Further multi-way sensitivity analyses would help to identify key cost drivers with greater precision and robustness. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-010-0228-4Authors Chantal Guilhaume, H. Lundbeck A/S Global Outcomes Research Division 37–45 Quai du Président Roosevelt 92445 Issy-les-Moulineaux Cedex FranceDelphine Saragoussi, H. Lundbeck A/S Global Outcomes Research Division 37–45 Quai du Président Roosevelt 92445 Issy-les-Moulineaux Cedex FranceJohn Cochran, H. Lundbeck A/S Global Outcomes Research Division 37–45 Qu... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3386697 Thu, 18 Mar 2010 15:36:12 +0100 3386697 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3361728&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fy816ph728280644l%2F Discussion  The three injection attributes were associated with small utility shifts in the expected directions. Dose frequency appears to be the most important of the three attributes from the patients’ perspective. The vignette-based SG approach was feasible and useful for assessing added utility or disutility of injection-related attributes associated with treatments for type 2 diabetes. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-010-0224-8Authors Kristina S. Boye, Eli Lilly and Company Indianapolis IN USALouis S. Matza, United BioSource Corporation Center for Health Outcomes Research 7101 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 600 Bethesda MD 20814 USAKimberly N. Walter, United BioSource Corporation Center for Health Outcomes Research 7101 Wisconsi... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3361728 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 18:14:43 +0100 3361728 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3357714&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg304599r52508221%2F This article contributes to the identification of social determinants, which are important determinants of health and follows recommendations suggested to help ‘close the gap’ in various health inequities. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-010-0229-3Authors Sandy Tubeuf, University of Leeds Academic Unit of Health Economics, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences Charles Thackrah Building, 101 Clarendon Road Leeds LS2 9LJ UKFlorence Jusot, Université Paris-Dauphine LEGOS Bureau A 522, Place du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny 75775 Paris Cedex 16 France Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3357714 Wed, 10 Mar 2010 15:24:13 +0100 3357714 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3357715&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F0327335l26545235%2F Abstract  The importance of prices, doctor and patient characteristics, and market institutions for the likelihood of choosing generic drugs instead of the more expensive original brand-name version are examined. Using an extensive dataset extracted from The Norwegian Prescription Database containing all prescriptions dispensed to individuals in February 2004 and 2006 on 23 different drugs (chemical substances) in Norway, we find strong evidence for the importance of both doctor and patient characteristics for the choice probabilities. The price difference between brand and generic versions and insurance coverage both affect generic substitution. Moreover, controlling for the retail chain affiliation of the dispensing pharmacy, we find that pharmacies play an important role... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3357715 Wed, 10 Mar 2010 15:24:12 +0100 3357715 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3315836&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fh6t717361732w64h%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory EditorialDOI 10.1007/s10198-010-0225-7Authors Sean D. Sullivan, University of Washington Pharmaceutical Outcomes Research and Policy Program Seattle WA 98195 USA Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3315836 Fri, 26 Feb 2010 09:42:50 +0100 3315836 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3313931&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Funp22m2031460ll3%2F Abstract  This paper analyses the effect of absolute deductibles on the cost of insurance for outpatient services. Moreover, cost savings on retained losses are estimated. Sharing risks between the insured and the insurer reduces total expenditure for outpatient benefits by up to 35%. In particular, optimal deductibles are determined in their utilitarian sense: the maximum possible savings on medical expenses are computed from the ground up. As part of the study, the effect of age and gender on these savings is analysed. The analysis is based on data taken from the private medical insurance industry in Germany. Similarities and discrepancies with respect to results obtained in the RAND Health Insurance Experiment conducted in the United States from 1971 to 1982 are highligh... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3313931 Thu, 25 Feb 2010 06:54:50 +0100 3313931 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3270861&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fw6r13576l35172p1%2F Abstract  Our study examines the long-term relationship among per capita gross domestic product (GDP), per capita health expenditures and population growth rate in Turkey during the period 1984–2006, employing the Johansen multivariate cointegration technique. Related previous studies on OECD countries have mostly excluded Turkey—itself an OECD country. The only study on Turkey examines the period 1984–1998. However, after 1998, major events and policy changes that had a substantial impact on income and health expenditures took place in Turkey, including a series of reforms to restructure the health and social security system. In contrast to earlier findings in the literature, we find that the income elasticity of total health expenditures is less than one, which indi... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3270861 Fri, 12 Feb 2010 07:09:30 +0100 3270861 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3265902&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F34v76m5671777m73%2F Abstract  This paper tests for the existence of adverse selection in the Brazilian individual health insurance market in 2003. The testing approach adapts that conceived by Chiappori and Salanié (Eur Econ Rev 41, 943–950, 1997; J Polit Econ 108, 56–78, 2000). After controlling for sex, age, income, number of dependents, occupational groups and schooling levels, the evidence favors adverse selection as indicated by a positive correlation between the coverage of the contract and occurrence of illnesses (as approximated by hospitalization) was not strong. The consideration of complex sampling in the probit estimations led to empirical evidence that does not indicate the presence of adverse selection, but which highlighted some interesting features of the relationship betw... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3265902 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 17:45:15 +0100 3265902 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3248409&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fk722886444854246%2F In this study, we use the Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition technique to explore to what extent disparities in the probability of using medical care use can be attributed to differences in the determinants of use due to, e.g. a different demographic structure of the immigrant collective, rather than to a different effect of health care use determinants by nationality, holding all other factors equal. Our findings show that unexplained factors associated to immigrant status determine to a great extent disparities in the probability of using hospital, specialist and emergency services of immigrants relative to Spaniards, while individual characteristics, in particular self-reported health and chronic conditions, are much more important in explaining the differences in the probability of usi... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3248409 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 18:11:49 +0100 3248409 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3224653&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fcv221026448qpr03%2F Abstract Background  As reforms in publicly funded health systems rely heavily on competition, it is important to know if and how public providers react to competition. In many European countries, it is empirically difficult to study public providers in different markets, but in Finnish occupational health services, both public and private for-profit and non-profit providers co-exist. We studied possible differences in public providers’ performance (price, intensity of services, service mix—curative medical services/prevention, productivity and revenues) according to the competitiveness of the market. Materials and methods  The Finnish Institute of Occupational Health (FIOH) collected data on clients, services and personnel for 1992, 1995, 1997, 2000 an... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3224653 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 18:00:34 +0100 3224653 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3224654&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F953v86877u671816%2F Conclusions  Asking patients or physicians about the multiple myeloma patients’ treatment preferences, the combination of direct assessment and DCE proves to be a valid survey technique. Over a broad range of treatment attributes, the physicians’ perceptions of preferences were very close to those of multiple myeloma patients. Both the direct assessment of importance in order to rank the patient perceptions and the DCE provide important insights into the preference structure of patients with multiple myeloma. The findings can subsequently be used as a basis for tailoring health care services for multiple myeloma patients in reference to their preferences. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-010-0218-6Authors Axel C. Mühlbacher,... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3224654 Wed, 27 Jan 2010 20:29:29 +0100 3224654 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3196675&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F944445n853144l87%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory EditorialDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0216-8Authors Wolfgang Greiner, University of Bielefeld Department for Health Economics, School of Public Health Postfach 10 01 31 Bielefeld GermanyJ.-Matthias Graf von der Schulenburg, Leibniz University Hannover Centre for Health Economics Hannover Germany Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3196675 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 17:43:40 +0100 3196675 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3192571&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F3614378105u00814%2F Conclusion  A naturalistic mirror-image study found that switching to long-acting injectable risperidone led to sizeable reductions in inpatient resource use. These results coincide with the findings of other international studies. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0215-9Authors Michael Willis, The Swedish Institute for Health Economics Box 2127 220 02 Lund SwedenMarianne Svensson, The Swedish Institute for Health Economics Box 2127 220 02 Lund SwedenMickael Löthgren, Janssen-Cilag Sollentuna SwedenBo Eriksson, Janssen-Cilag Sollentuna SwedenAnders Berntsson, Psychiatry North East Stockholm SwedenUlf Persson, The Swedish Institute for Health Economics Box 2127 220 02 Lund Sweden Journal The European Journal of Health Econo... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3192571 Mon, 18 Jan 2010 18:47:15 +0100 3192571 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3170443&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fc87322w64w826212%2F Abstract  The fiscal sustainability of government health expenditures is defined as the gap between growth rates of spending and measures of the resource base. The results show that over the period 1965–2008, real per capita Canadian provincial government health spending has grown at rates that exceed growth in basic measures of the resource base such as per capita gross domestic product (GDP), per capita federal transfers and per capita provincial government revenues. Forecasts of future spending to 2035 using determinant regression and growth rate extrapolation techniques show that Canadian provincial government health spending is projected to continue rising in the future and its share of provincial GDP will rise. While the amount spent on health is ultimately a public... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3170443 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 18:20:58 +0100 3170443 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3155500&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fe455505140q6upq1%2F Abstract  Increased health care expenditure could be used to improve quality of care or reduce waiting time and could therefore be expected to affect the health and sickness absence of a population. Still, based on data from a panel of Swedish municipalities, public health care expenditure was found to have no, or only a negligible effect on absence due to sickness or disability. The same result was obtained when separate estimates were done for men and women and for absence due to sickness and disability. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0213-yAuthors David Granlund, Umeå University Department of Economics 901 87 Umeå Sweden Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 (Source:... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3155500 Tue, 05 Jan 2010 17:00:01 +0100 3155500 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3155501&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F204643860q652653%2F Abstract  The aims of this study were to estimate medical expenditures on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) treatment and to identify significant associated variables. We performed a retrospective multi-centre study in the Canary Islands using a sample of 569 patients recruited at outpatient visits. The study examined demographic and clinical variables, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), and health care resources. Clinical data was obtained from medical records and patient interviews. Several empirical models for identifying the relationship between health care costs and independent variables were developed. The greatest expense came from pharmaceutical expenditure (82.1% of direct costs), while hospital costs only represented 4.6% of total expenditure. The data showe... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3155501 Mon, 04 Jan 2010 18:20:13 +0100 3155501 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3126105&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fw724184425205x55%2F Abstract  Substitution of inpatient for outpatient care is seen as a means to increase patient throughput and control costs. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of increased outpatient care on hospital costs and efficiency using Finnish specialty-level data from years 2003–2006 to which we applied stochastic frontier analysis. The results reveal that outpatient services have a smaller impact on total costs than inpatient services. At the same time, increased outpatient activity appears to have an adverse effect on estimated cost efficiency. This counterintuitive finding is probably due to the low weight given to outpatient activities by the Diagnosis Related Groups (DRG) system. A common weighting for inpatient and outpatient services is required in order t... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3126105 Sat, 26 Dec 2009 16:38:47 +0100 3126105 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088359&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F9428441j6l821214%2F Abstract  Cancer is foremost among one of the major public health problems in Turkey. Projections for the year 2030 estimate that cancer will take the highest death toll for both males and females. In line with the dynamic health care reform process commencing in 2003, the national cancer policy of Turkey has also changed radically. Cancer became more visible as a public health problem and improvements have been made in early diagnosis and treatment of the disease. In addition, major steps have been taken to improve the cancer registry system in order to improve cancer statistics. Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence is approximately 7 per 100,000, with approximately 5,000 new cases and 3,200 deaths annually. Although cancer treatment expenditures are widely covered in Turkey,... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088359 Sat, 12 Dec 2009 14:17:38 +0100 3088359 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088360&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fp240w5710n66q1l4%2F Abstract  Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent and deadly cancers in Italy. Its burden is expected to remain significant in the coming years, although it is mostly a preventable disease. Prevention and screening programmes will play an important role in the fight against CRC. A national formal screening programme was introduced in the 2003–2005 and 2005–2007 national health programmes, leaving the planning and implementation, respectively, to each region and local health unit. In 2007, screening programmes covered 46.6% of the eligible population, with a higher coverage in the North (71.6%) and in the Centre (52.1%) than in the South (7%). The majority of programmes used the guaiac faecal occult blood test (FOBT) as first-line test. Only few programmes u... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088360 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:07:36 +0100 3088360 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088361&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F707175ut2474531v%2F Abstract  This paper provides an overview of cancer management, particularly with respect to colorectal cancer (CRC), in Germany. The information presented reflects findings from the peer-review literature and government documentation, as well as interviews with cancer and CRC specialists. Topics such as epidemiology, expenditure, CRC screening, pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical treatment are discussed in this paper. Furthermore, insights into the German reimbursement system with regard to cancer management as well as regulatory aspects are presented. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0194-xAuthors J.-Matthias von der Schulenburg, Leibniz University Hannover Hannover GermanyAnne Prenzler, Leibniz University Hannover Hannover Ge... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088361 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:07:35 +0100 3088361 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088363&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F6872t5k70w5mq81x%2F Abstract  Mexico, like many other middle-income countries, is experiencing a demographic and epidemiological transition resulting in an older population suffering from chronic diseases. At the present time, cancer is the second cause of death in the country. Until recently, cervical carcinoma was the most frequent type of cancer in the country, however, the incidence of breast, prostate and colon cancers is growing. The demand for health care and health expenditure represented by cancer treatment challenges the limited resources the country has, particularly as patients seek treatment in advanced stages of the disease. Interestingly enough, these types of cancers could be detected in the early stages with rather simple screening procedures. The purpose of this paper is to d... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088363 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:07:33 +0100 3088363 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088362&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fe8888074278g3k47%2F Abstract  The main goals of this paper are to (1) analyse the inequality in geographic distribution of physicians and its evolution, (2) estimate the determinants of physician density, and (3) assess the importance of competitive and agglomerative forces in location decisions. The analysis of the geographic distribution of physicians is based on the ratio of general practitioners (GPs) and specialists to 1,000 inhabitants. The inequality is measured using Gini indices, coefficients of variation, and physician-to-population ratios. The econometric models were estimated by ordinary least squares. The data used refer to 1996 and 2007. The impact of the growing number of physicians, and therefore potential increased competition, on geographic distribution during the period stud... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088362 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:07:33 +0100 3088362 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088364&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F56xn8375k01w0p4v%2F Abstract  This paper examines how the unemployment rate is related to adolescent alcohol use and experience of binge drinking during a time period characterized by big societal changes. The paper uses repeated cross-sectional adolescent survey data from a Swedish region, collected in 1988, 1991, 1995, 1998, 2002 and 2005, and merges this with data on local unemployment rates for the same time periods. Individual level frequency of alcohol use as well as experience of binge drinking is connected to local level unemployment rate to estimate the relationship using multilevel modeling. The model includes municipality effects controlling for time-invariant differences between municipalities as well as year fixed effects controlling for municipality-invariant changes over time in... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088364 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:07:32 +0100 3088364 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088367&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F42022106h613077x%2F Abstract  The area of cancer care has received significant political attention in Denmark over the past decades. Colorectal cancer (CRC) has a relatively high burden of disease and high mortality. This paper describes the main initiatives to improve CRC treatment in Denmark. It highlights the introduction of national “cancer pathways” based on clinical guidelines. The pathways specify ideal patient pathways through the system and include standards for waiting times and care processes. The comprehensiveness and high quality of Danish patient registers will aid in the implementation. Yet a number of outstanding challenges are also identified. The most important include a shortage of nursing and medical specialists for cancer care, and issues of co-ordination between prima... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088367 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:07:31 +0100 3088367 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088366&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fc4175j4175166125%2F Abstract  Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most commonly identified malignant neoplasm diagnosed in men (12% of total cancers) and women (11%) in Poland, while CRC mortality is second in men (10.1%) and third in women (11.2%). The main reasons for increasing incidence and mortality are an aging population and an increase in environmental and lifestyle factors which may lead to cancer. In Poland there is a lack of historical (regularly published and accessible) data on cancer morbidity and survival rates. The Oncology Centre published cancer data for the first time in February 2009 the 2006, which, also for the first time, embraced the entire country. Oncology data collection in Poland is based on a network of 16 Regional Cancer Registries reporting to the Polish Nation... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088366 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:07:31 +0100 3088366 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088365&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fl71g321815586615%2F Abstract   Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the leading cause of all new cancer cases and the second major cause for all cancer deaths in Spain. CRC survival has improved over the past few decades and is now higher than the 5-years European average, but this is associated with improved treatment than to early detection. A number of screening pilot programs have been completed in various regions, likely leading to national implementation in the future. Treatment guidelines have been developed and implemented to set standards and reduce practice variability. Newer treatments are available, including laparoscopic surgery, adjuvant chemotherapy and the use of targeted treatments. Specific programs are in place for rural patients, as well as programs to reduce waiting times. Overall,... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088365 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:07:31 +0100 3088365 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088368&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fk33288h6071h24k1%2F Abstract  This paper explores the current situation of colorectal cancer (CRC) management in the UK. Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death in the UK, and the second and third leading cause of new cancer cases in women and men, respectively. These figures have increased over the past decade and, coupled with poorer survival rates compared to the European average and an ageing population, have recently led to the implementation of national screening in 2007–2009. Staffing adjustments are being made in preparation for national CRC-related demands, and national treatment guidelines are currently being revised. Access to new targeted treatments, however, is very limited due to negative NICE guidance and access is granted to only a select few. Targets hav... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088368 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:07:30 +0100 3088368 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088369&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F3628741220648884%2F Abstract  Colorectal cancer (CRC) presents a substantial health burden in France, as the third cause of new cancer cases after breast and prostate cancers and the second cancer mortality cause representing nearly 12% of cancer deaths and almost 10% of annual life year loss due to cancer. Its prognosis has dramatically improved since the 1970s due to earlier diagnosis and an increase in the number of cases eligible for surgery. The first cancer plan implemented for the period 2003–2006 led to further improvements via, amongst others, implementing a national cancer institute (INCA), developing research, improving the quality of care and facilitating access to innovative treatments. The second cancer plan (2009–2013) aims to expand the scope of the existing can... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088369 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:07:29 +0100 3088369 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088370&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fautmv6t721p78n6g%2F Abstract  The aim of the paper is to give an overview of the epidemiology, treatment pattern and quality, as well as policy issues and disease burden of colorectal cancer (CRC) in Hungary. Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer-related death in both males and females in Hungary. The Hungarian Cancer Registry collects data on the epidemiological characteristics of CRC. Two pilot programmes (1997/1998 and 2003/2004) were conducted for population-based screening of CRC using both immunological and guaiac faecal occult blood testing (FOBT). The National Health Insurance Fund Administration (NHIFA) spends altogether € 38.9 million a year on the treatment of CRC. It is hoped that the introduction of an accepted and cost-effective screening programm... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088370 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:07:27 +0100 3088370 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088371&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fh5563481644x316g%2F Abstract  Using peer-reviewed publications and official government documents, this paper covers three important issues concerning colorectal cancer (CRC) in Russia: (1) CRC epidemiology, (2) screening for CRC, (3) medical care for patients with CRC. Colon and rectal cancer are registered separately in Russia. When colon and rectal cancers are considered together, CRC is the second cause of cancer death for women (after breast cancer) and the third for men (after lung and stomach cancer), while both incidence and mortality have increased over the past decade. About a quarter of all new colon and rectal cancer cases are diagnosed at Stage IV and one-third of patients with newly diagnosed disease die in the first year after diagnosing, however, poor data collection and collati... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088371 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:07:25 +0100 3088371 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088374&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ff08gu564542p7701%2F Abstract  Cancer is now the primary cause of death in the Netherlands, with colorectal cancer (CRC) being responsible for a significant portion of cancer incidence (14%) and mortality (11.8%) in men and women. An aging population and the possibility of national CRC screening, currently under discussion, will likely increase this burden. Despite switching in 2006 to obligatory subsidized private health insurance, health expenditure continues to rise, along with increased cancer and drug expenditures. Despite rising drug expenditures, new targeted biological treatments are available under centrally subsidized provisions. CRC treatment guidelines are available, published online, regularly updated, and monitored for quality purposes. There are concerns regarding waiting times f... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088374 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:07:21 +0100 3088374 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088373&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ffxng32hh24705323%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory EditorialDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0200-3Authors Panos Kanavos, London School of Economics Department of Social Policy and LSE Health Houghton Street London WC2A 2AE UKWillemien Schurer, London School of Economics Department of Social Policy and LSE Health Houghton Street London WC2A 2AE UK Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088373 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:07:21 +0100 3088373 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088372&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ff166t2vn1w3183vt%2F Abstract  Increasing diagnosis and deaths caused by colorectal cancer (CRC) warrant closer examination of affected patients and focus on management of CRC in Portugal. In order to assess the extent and quality of the information available in Portugal, we first analyse Portuguese cancer registries and then the management of CRC by discussing the diagnostic process and medical care provided, especially pharmaceuticals. Other cancer indications are mentioned in order to illustrate current approaches of cancer in Portugal. Current national data on cancer patients are scarce and there are divergencies in methods of data collection and treatment amongst regional cancer registries. However, the available data is sufficient enough to understand the dimension of CRC, with age-standa... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088372 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:07:21 +0100 3088372 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088376&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ff88nv2684929k6uk%2F Abstract  Despite lower cancer mortality rates in Greece compared to other European countries, colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most important cause of cancer mortality. Given the significant economic and societal impact of CRC in Greece, this paper focuses on CRC data resources, disease management and the existing prevention policies. Numerous initiatives have taken place for the collection of data and the creation of cancer registries, however, they currently remain incomplete. Despite universal access of the Greek population to health services provision, structural problems of the national health system have imposed organisational barriers to the geographical distribution of health resources. National invitational CRC screening programmes focusing on early detection ... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088376 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:07:17 +0100 3088376 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088375&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ff6297253512r0345%2F Abstract  This paper discusses the current care management arrangements for colorectal cancer (CRC) in 16 OECD countries plus the Russian Federation by analysing data sources, the uptake of screening and surveillance, the available capacity in endoscopy services, the treatment pathways in medical treatment, as well as the type and availability of pharmaceutical care. The paper highlights significant variations in practice across the 17 countries. Common themes emerge from each of these practices and standards in terms of political interest in policies and awareness of CRC (both of which need to be enhanced), affordability (in terms of scarcity of resources in some countries and out-of-pocket payments for parts of the overall treatment process), access (in terms of the signi... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088375 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:07:17 +0100 3088375 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3081682&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fp337u8m136561114%2F Abstract  The 2003 outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) showed that infectious disease outbreaks can have notable macroeconomic impacts. The current H1N1 and potential H5N1 flu pandemics could have a much greater impact. Using a multi-sector single country computable general equilibrium model of the United Kingdom, France, Belgium and The Netherlands, together with disease scenarios of varying severity, we examine the potential economic cost of a modern pandemic. Policies of school closure, vaccination and antivirals, together with prophylactic absence from work are evaluated and their cost impacts are estimated. Results suggest GDP losses from the disease of approximately 0.5–2% but school closure and prophylactic absenteeism more than triples these effec... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3081682 Tue, 08 Dec 2009 19:48:11 +0100 3081682 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3066057&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fk507390l43314122%2F Conclusion  Rituximab appears to be a cost-effective treatment alternative compared to the switch between TNF-inhibitors as second line biological treatment in patients with active RA having failed etanercept. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0205-yAuthors Sonja Merkesdal, Hannover Medical School Division of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Working Group for Health Economics and Clinical Epidemiology Carl-Neuberg-Strasse 1 OE 6830 30625 Hannover GermanyTimm Kirchhoff, Hannover Medical School Division of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Working Group for Health Economics and Clinical Epidemiology Carl-Neuberg-Strasse 1 OE 6830 30625 Hannover GermanyDiane Wolka, Roche Pharma Grenzach-Wyhlen GermanyGunter Ladinek, Roche Ph... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3066057 Fri, 04 Dec 2009 21:17:19 +0100 3066057 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3066058&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F352p782854237506%2F Conclusion  Palivizumab provides a cost-effective method of prophylaxis against severe RSV disease requiring hospitalisation among preterm infants in Spain. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0206-xAuthors Mark J. Nuijten, IMTA, Erasmus University Rotterdam The NetherlandsWolfgang Wittenberg, Abbott GmbH & Co, KG Global Health Economics and Outcomes Research Knollstrasse P.O. Box 21 08 06 6700 Ludwigshafen Germany Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3066058 Fri, 04 Dec 2009 21:17:18 +0100 3066058 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3022119&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F32128654qu362886%2F Abstract  Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nvAMD) is a chronic, progressive disease of the central retina, and its prevalence is expected to rise with the ageing population. Using a bottom-up approach based on retrospective data, this cross-sectional study estimated average annual direct costs of nvAMD to be £4,047, and average annual indirect costs to be £449. An attempt to measure intangible costs through willingness-to-pay yielded a lower response rate and estimated intangible costs to be 11.5% of monthly income. Direct costs were significantly higher for male participants, for those who have mild or moderate visual impairment in both eyes, and for those who have been diagnosed for a shorter time. The findings of this study suggest that the availability of... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3022119 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 09:09:34 +0100 3022119 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2991948&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ft372m50463r4768w%2F This study underlines the importance of depression for health costs, and suggests that treatment of depression could be associated with long-term cost reductions. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0203-0Authors Harald J. Hamre, Institute for Applied Epistemology and Medical Methodology Zechenweg 6 79111 Freiburg GermanyClaudia M. Witt, Charité University Medical Centre Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology, and Health Economics Berlin GermanyAnja Glockmann, Institute for Applied Epistemology and Medical Methodology Zechenweg 6 79111 Freiburg GermanyRenatus Ziegler, Society for Cancer Research Arlesheim SwitzerlandGunver S. Kienle, Institute for Applied Epistemology and Medical Methodology Zechenweg 6 79111 Freiburg GermanyStefan N. Willic... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2991948 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 18:40:31 +0100 2991948 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2971753&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fa2508h5166v15178%2F Abstract  The aim of this work was to analyse the use of health care services by immigrants in Spain. Using a nationally representative health survey from 2006–2007 and negative binomial and hurdle models, it was found that there is no statistically significant difference in the patterns of visits to general practitioners and hospital stays between migrants and natives in Spain. However, immigrants have a lower access to specialists and visit emergency rooms with a higher frequency than nationals. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0204-zAuthors José-Ignacio Antón, University of Salamanca Department of Applied Economics 37007 Salamanca SpainRafael Muñoz de Bustillo, University of Salamanca Department of Applied Economics 37007 S... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2971753 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 18:58:50 +0100 2971753 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2930089&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F54n7qp1778126657%2F This study evaluates hospital performance by calculating two efficiency measures associated with two categories of inputs. The first efficiency measures the costs associated with hospital production lines and the number of beds (representing fixed capacity) as inputs. The annual costs generated by the hospitals in the consumption of capital and work (direct and indirect costs) are used. A second measure of efficiency is calculated separately. This measure includes in the inputs the number of beds as well as the human resources available (number of doctors, number of nurses and other personnel) in each hospital. With regard to output, the variables that best reflect the hospital services rendered were considered: number of inpatient days, patients discharged, outpatient visits, emerge... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2930089 Fri, 23 Oct 2009 18:53:59 +0100 2930089 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2919018&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fr4v12p1ju8703180%2F Conclusion  Infliximab induction regimen appears to be a cost-effective treatment option for UC patients hospitalised with an acute exacerbation. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0199-5Authors Yogesh Suresh Punekar, Schering-Plough Ltd Welwyn Garden City AL7 1TW UKNeil Hawkins, Oxford Outcomes Oxford UK Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2919018 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 09:06:10 +0100 2919018 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2864798&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ff55149q68m2525q1%2F Abstract  This paper investigates the relationship between saving and health spending in a two-period overlapping generations economy. Individuals work in the first period of life and live in retirement in old age. Health spending is an activity that increases quality of life and longevity. Empirical evidence shows that both health spending and saving behave as luxury goods but their behaviour differs markedly according to the level of per capita GDP. The share of saving on GDP has a concave shape with respect to per capita GDP, whereas the share of health spending on GDP increases more than proportionally with respect to per capita GDP. The ratio of saving to spending is nonlinear with respect to income, i.e. first increasing and then decreasing. This ratio, in the propose... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2864798 Thu, 01 Oct 2009 18:32:27 +0100 2864798 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2850287&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fb277u4412t8u0154%2F Abstract  This paper analyses the effect of the onset of disability on the well-being of individuals. In particular, we are interested in studying whether people can adapt to disability over time after its onset. Using longitudinal data from the German Socio-Economic Panel (GSOEP) for the period 1984–2006, we estimate life satisfaction equations using a fixed-effects model for working-age males (aged 21–58). The results show that disability has a significant negative effect on life satisfaction, but, in time, hedonic adaptation will return disabled males to life satisfaction levels registered by those who have not become disabled. These findings contribute to supporting the idea within psychology literature that individuals bounce back from painful events or adversities... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2850287 Tue, 29 Sep 2009 16:54:31 +0100 2850287 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2833800&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ft870v216048g32n5%2F Abstract  Patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) are in need of cost-intensive treatment involving different aspects of the German Health System. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is the treatment of choice for a large proportion of cases. In the present study, an analysis of the cost impact of ACS with focus on PCI therapy was conducted across-the-board for the German Health System. Results indicated that 85% of all costs arising from treatment of ACS with a trial of PCI are due to in-patient care. Projection of results onto the entire insurant collective of the statutory health system estimated a total of €954,995,603—a proportional 0.7% of all expenditure by statutory health insurances in 2005. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI ... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2833800 Wed, 23 Sep 2009 06:01:50 +0100 2833800 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2827212&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F675651422r5005g9%2F Abstract  Our analysis is based on the 2008 Athens Area Study and exploits detailed information regarding health impairments and labour market outcomes for Greek males. Distinguishing between healthy and heath-impaired employees who have or do not have work limitations, the unobserved productivity effect of health is separated from discrimination. We then estimate a regression model that includes terms to correct for employment selection and endogenous stratification of self-reported health condition. A penalty for productivity limitation exists. Evidence of wage discrimination is also found. Both findings are statistically significant and highlight the necessity for instituting active policies against unequal treatment. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original Paper... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2827212 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:06:24 +0100 2827212 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2812014&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F448753606647j601%2F Abstract  The goal of Seguro Popular (SP) in Mexico was to improve the financial protection of the uninsured population against excessive health expenditures. This paper estimates the impact of SP on catastrophic health expenditures (CHE), as well as out-of-pocket (OOP) health expenditures, from two different sources. First, we use the SP Impact Evaluation Survey (2005–2006), and compare the instrumental variables (IV) results with the experimental benchmark. Then, we use the same IV methods with the National Health and Nutrition Survey (ENSANUT 2006). We estimate naïve models, assuming exogeneity, and contrast them with IV models that take advantage of the specific SP implementation mechanisms for identification. The IV models estimated included two-stage least squares ... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2812014 Wed, 16 Sep 2009 18:57:30 +0100 2812014 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2812015&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fut5121252871u291%2F Abstract  In response to increasing health expenditures and a high number of physician visits, the German government introduced a copayment for ambulatory care in 2004 for individuals with statutory health insurance (SHI). Because persons with private insurance were exempt from the copayments, this health-care reform can be regarded as a natural experiment. We used a difference-in-difference approach to examine whether the new copayment effectively reduced the overall demand for physician visits and to explore whether it acted as a deterrent to vulnerable groups, such as those with low income or chronic conditions. We found that there was no significant reduction in the number of physician visits among SHI members compared to our control group. At the same time, we did not ... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2812015 Wed, 16 Sep 2009 18:57:29 +0100 2812015 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2701506&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fgu64n2407033p211%2F Conclusion  The study shows a clear decrement in utility moving from different severity levels of severe chronic pain. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0178-xAuthors S. Eldabe, The James Cook University Hospital Department of Pain and Anaesthesia Middlesbrough UKA. Lloyd, Former United BioSource Corporation London UKL. Verdian, Eisai Global Health Economics and Outcomes Research London UKM. Meguro, United BioSource Corporation London UKG. Maclaine, Eisai Global Health Economics and Outcomes Research London UKS. Dewilde, Former United BioSource Corporation London UK Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2701506 Wed, 12 Aug 2009 22:34:58 +0100 2701506 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2687468&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fq801u38783x72350%2F Conclusions  The indicative model provides a framework for evaluation. More work is needed to understand the impact of antibiotic resistance over time in these currently effective antibiotics. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0175-0Authors Rachel A. Elliott, University of Nottingham Division of Social Research in Medicines and Health, School of Pharmacy Nottingham NG7 2RD UKHelen L. A. Weatherly, University of York Centre for Health Economics Heslington York YO10 5DD UKNeil S. Hawkins, University of York Centre for Health Economics Heslington York YO10 5DD UKGillian Cranny, University of York Centre for Reviews and Dissemination Heslington York YO10 5DD UKDuncan Chambers, University of York Centre for Reviews and Dissemination He... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2687468 Sun, 09 Aug 2009 07:11:16 +0100 2687468 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2681016&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fj47t070m6w733p0q%2F Abstract  The Irish health care system is typically described as complex and inequitable and yet the source of the complexity is difficult to identify. This paper examines and documents the way in which the structure of the Irish system is complicated when compared with other countries. Analysis is conducted in the context of the ‘health basket’ framework. A health basket describes which health care services, and which individuals, are covered by public funding, and to what extent. The Irish health basket is outlined along three dimensions of breadth, depth, and height, and compared with the health baskets of the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Sweden and France. Results indicate that it is in the combination of breadth and height that distinguishes the Irish basket ... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2681016 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 21:20:19 +0100 2681016 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2681015&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ft0w5510266448q48%2F This study used principal agent theory to explain differences in efficiency between hospitals. Two agency issues are examined: (1) quality of care in the relationship between hospital and patient, and (2) internal organisation, i.e. the relationship between the hospital and its main departments. It was found that efficiency and quality go together. This implies that the potential harmful information asymmetry between hospitals and patients does not appear to be a major problem, because increasing efficiency does not seem to reduce quality. Further, we find no relationship between the efficiency of departments and the efficiency of the entire hospital. The interest of hospital departments is currently not in line with the interests of the entire hospital. Content Type Journal Artic... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2681015 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 21:20:19 +0100 2681015 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2681017&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fa6v61786k6001336%2F Abstract  Based on the aggregation of individual willingness-to-pay for a statistical life, we calibrate an inter-temporal optimisation model to determine the aggregate welfare loss from HIV/AIDS in 25 Eastern European countries. Assuming a discount rate of 3%, we find a total welfare loss for the whole region that exceeds US $800 billion, approximately 10% of the region’s annual GDP between 1995 and 2001. Although prevalence and incidence rates diverge sharply between countries—with central Europe far less affected than major countries in the Commonwealth of Independent States and the Baltics—the epidemic is likely to spread to all countries unless a coherent strategy of prevention and treatment is backed up by substantial increases in healthcare investment... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2681017 Tue, 04 Aug 2009 21:20:18 +0100 2681017 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2666455&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg18636307270g160%2F In conclusion, hospital characteristics and volume of services determined the concentration of pharmaceuticals at the institution level, reflecting the heterogeneous competition between pharmaceutical companies within each hospital. Institution-level pharmaceutical concentration influences the adoption and penetration of new drugs. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0174-1Authors Yi-Wen Tsai, National Health Research Institutes Institute of Population Health Sciences 35 Keyan Road Zhunan Miaoli 350 TaiwanYu-Wen Wen, National Health Research Institutes Institute of Population Health Sciences 35 Keyan Road Zhunan Miaoli 350 TaiwanWeng-Foung Huang, National Yang-Ming University Institute of Health and Welfare Policy No. 155, Sec. 2, Linong St. Ta... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2666455 Sun, 02 Aug 2009 06:26:18 +0100 2666455 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2662248&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ff0845571659m2653%2F Abstract  Value-based pricing (VBP) is a method of setting prices for products based on perceived benefits to the consumer. When information is symmetric and freely available and agency is perfect, VBP is efficient and desirable. Because of substantial information asymmetries, medical insurance distortions, and the prescribing monopoly of physicians, VBP is rare for prescription drugs, though a number of countries have recently moved in this direction. Because the potential benefits can be sizable, it is high time for a review of actual VBP-based decision-making in practice. Sweden, with its pharmaceutical benefits board (TLV), was an early adopter of VBP decision-making. We illustrate actual decision-making, thus, using the case of Acomplia® for the treatment of obesity in... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2662248 Tue, 28 Jul 2009 18:28:57 +0100 2662248 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2662249&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F75rx4453j0087217%2F Abstract  This paper analyses (1) the impact of the inclusion of statins in the German reference pricing scheme in 2005 on the statin market, and (2) the effect of switching behaviour subsequent to the policy change on healthcare utilisation and costs. Patients with prescriptions for statins in 2004 were observed for 1 year before and 1 year after the policy change, which went into effect on 1 January 2005. Data on outpatient and inpatient visits, pharmaceutical consumption, and cost to the sickness fund were collected from a sickness fund with more than 5.8 million insured members in 2005. Compared to patients who were not affected by the policy change, patients treated previously with atorvastatin experienced higher non-adherence and increased discontinuati... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2662249 Tue, 28 Jul 2009 18:28:56 +0100 2662249 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2639417&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F1v0218q16717261m%2F Abstract  The purpose of this paper is to raise awareness of missing data when concentration indices are used to evaluate health-related inequality. Concentration indices are most commonly calculated using individual-level survey data. Incomplete data is a pervasive problem faced by most applied researchers who use survey data. The default analysis method in most statistical software packages is complete-case analysis. This excludes any cases where any variables are missing. If the missing variables in question are not completely random, the calculated concentration indices are likely to be biased, which may lead to inappropriate policy recommendations. In this paper, I use both a case study and a simulation study to show how complete-case analysis may lead to biases in the... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2639417 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 09:10:31 +0100 2639417 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2639418&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fh81v50v034300857%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory EditorialDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0173-2Authors Bengt Jönsson, Stockholm School of Economics Department of Economics Box 6501 113 83 Stockholm Sweden Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2639418 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 01:53:16 +0100 2639418 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2597284&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ffjg6361g51221113%2F Abstract  The health care system in Greece is financed in almost equal proportions by public and private sources. Private expenditure, consists mostly of out-of-pocket and under-the-table payments. Such payments strongly suggest dissatisfaction with the public system, due to under financing during the last 25 years. This gap has been filled rapidly by the private sector. From this point of view, one might suggest that the flourishing development of private provision may lead in turn to a corresponding growth in private health insurance (PHI). This paper aims to examine the role of PHI in Greece, to identify the factors influencing its development, and to make some suggestions about future policies and trends. In the decade of 1985–1995 PHI show increasing activity, r... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2597284 Sat, 11 Jul 2009 06:47:46 +0100 2597284 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2597285&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F77p174j4078k860w%2F Abstract  Since 2002, the Croatian social health insurance system has undergone substantial reforms, initiated for the most part with the aim of addressing the perpetual financial deficits of the state health insurance fund. While the reforms focussed heavily on increasing the inflow of private funds into the health care system, underlying inefficiencies contributing significantly to poor financial performance have been largely ignored. Furthermore, contrary to demographic trends and developments in social health insurance schemes in other countries, funding health care became even more dependent on its main collection mechanism—payroll tax—and consequently on the employment ratio and wage level. Little effort has been made to diversify the revenue base or to increase t... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2597285 Sat, 11 Jul 2009 06:47:45 +0100 2597285 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2597286&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn0183l1476376ml4%2F Abstract  The purpose of this study was to analyse whether BMI has any consequence on being employed or not in a specific Spanish labour market (those living in the city of Barcelona). Self-reported data were corrected by means of specific conversion formulas. Additionally, participants were questioned about making use of an IV procedure (gap between individual BMI score and the average value of those either with the same attained educational level by gender, or living in the same district). Irrespective of the strategy applied, the results point to the presence of BMI effects on labour market status exclusively for women, specifically those up to 45 years old. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0169-yAuthors Toni Mora, Univer... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2597286 Sat, 11 Jul 2009 06:47:44 +0100 2597286 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2592886&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ffg727601052478t2%2F Abstract  Clinical studies use a wide variety of health status measures to measure health related quality of life, many of which cannot be used in cost-effectiveness analysis using cost per quality adjusted life year (QALY). Mapping is one solution that is gaining popularity as it enables health state utility values to be predicted for use in cost per QALY analysis when no preference-based measure has been included in the study. This paper presents a systematic review of current practice in mapping between non-preference based measures and generic preference-based measures, addressing feasibility and validity, circumstances under which it should be considered and lessons for future mapping studies. This review found 30 studies reporting 119 different models. Performance of ... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2592886 Thu, 09 Jul 2009 12:15:56 +0100 2592886 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2590504&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F8j4g3751k3651174%2F This study aimed at deriving a preference valuation set for EQ-5D health states from the general Flemish public in Belgium. A EuroQol valuation instrument with 16 health states to be valued on a visual analogue scale was sent to a random sample of 2,754 adults. The initial response rate was 35%. Eventually, 548 (20%) respondents provided useable valuations for modeling. Valuations for 245 health states were modeled using a random effects model. The selection of the model was based on two criteria: health state valuations must be consistent, and the difference with the directly observed valuations must be small. A model including a value decrement if any health dimension of the EQ-5D is on the worst level was selected to construct the social health state valuation set. A comparison wi... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2590504 Tue, 07 Jul 2009 15:27:57 +0100 2590504 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2590505&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F01285671470ru2wx%2F Conclusions  In the REVIVE II trial, patients treated with levo had shorter LOS and lower cost for the initial hospital admission relative to patients treated with SOC. Based on sub-group analysis of patients administered per the current label, levo appears cost-effective relative to SOC. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0165-2Authors Greg de Lissovoy, United BioSource Corporation 7101 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 600 Bethesda MD 20814 USAKathy Fraeman, United BioSource Corporation 7101 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 600 Bethesda MD 20814 USAJohn R. Teerlink, University of California Section of Cardiology, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center and School of Medicine San Francisco CA USAJohn Mullahy, University of Wisconsin Departmen... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2590505 Tue, 07 Jul 2009 15:27:56 +0100 2590505 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2559571&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fv4180669p6163804%2F Abstract  This paper proposes a thorough framework for the economic evaluation of telemedicine networks. A standard cost analysis methodology was used as the initial base, similar to the evaluation method currently being applied to telemedicine, and to which we suggest adding subsequent stages that enhance the scope and sophistication of the analytical methodology. We completed the methodology with a longitudinal and stakeholder analysis, followed by the calculation of a break-even threshold, a calculation of the economic outcome based on net present value (NPV), an estimate of the social gain through external effects, and an assessment of the probability of social benefits. In order to illustrate the advantages, constraints and limitations of the proposed framework, we tes... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2559571 Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:27:06 +0100 2559571 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2501037&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F327228t3n76h8755%2F Abstract  The consequences of consumer-driven health care under different health insurance plans are studied by means of a game theoretic approach. Suitable demand-side cost-sharing can induce consumer behavior that avoids over-treatment when there are information asymmetries between providers and consumers, leading to the efficient recommendations and provision of treatment by providers. If under-treatment can be penalized, then a full insurance model that pays providers a fixed salary and fee-for-service or one that requires patients to present a referral letter before specialist care is delivered also achieves provision efficiency. The two models, however, yield higher welfare for consumers. Hence, the findings in this paper favor some amount of regulation in health-care... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2501037 Tue, 16 Jun 2009 05:50:33 +0100 2501037 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2501038&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fr76022340816q0mh%2F The objective of the present study was to describe a new model of the cost-effectiveness of treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and its application to a comparison of pregabalin versus venlafaxine extended-release (XR) from a Spanish healthcare perspective. Microsimulation techniques, including Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A) score, number of weeks with minimal or no anxiety (HAM-A ≤ 9), and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), were used to predict treatment outcomes for patients with moderate-to-severe GAD who would be treated with pregabalin vs venlafaxine XR. Expected levels of healthcare utilization and unit cost of care are derived from Spanish published sources. We express cost-effectiveness alternatively in terms of incremental cost per additional week w... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2501038 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 12:53:23 +0100 2501038 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2462458&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F54h48303043g7346%2F Conclusion  Costs for out-patient care accounted for 25% and drugs for 5% of total costs. If patients not treated with simvastatin or clopidogrel had received these drugs, an additional 154–306 lives might have been saved. Drug costs would be higher, but total costs lower. Thus, even expensive drugs may reduce overall costs. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0161-6Authors Lars Wilhelmsen, University of Gothenburg Gothenburg SwedenLennart Welin, Lidköping Hospital Lidköping SwedenAnders Odén, Chalmers University of Technology Göteborg SwedenArne Björnberg, Pollex Retro Research Stockholm Sweden Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 (Source: The European Journal of H... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2462458 Thu, 04 Jun 2009 09:49:54 +0100 2462458 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2445656&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ff313338447743306%2F This study assessed the direct medical cost of cochlear implantation in children and adults in France. A prospective multicentre study involving 19 French University Hospitals included 268 children and 201 adults who were severely to profoundly hearing-impaired. Medical resources utilisation included diagnostic tests, in-patient care, device implants, adverse events and follow-up visits for rehabilitation in the 1st year. The mean costs were €34,686 per child and €31,946 per adult. The cost of device implant represents 64.4% and 68.8% of the total cost for children and adults, respectively. The current reform of financing of the healthcare system requires detailed knowledge of the costs of interventions, hence the costs of cochlear implantation should be factored int... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2445656 Thu, 28 May 2009 09:19:48 +0100 2445656 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2435787&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fv4n581g143366q22%2F Abstract  At a time when the government of Iceland is considering privatization of alcohol sales and a reduction of its governmental fees, it is timely to estimate the potential effects of this policy change. Given that the privatization of sales coupled with a tax reduction should lead to a decrease in the unit price of alcohol, one would expect the quantity consumed to increase. While it is of interest to project the impact of the proposed bill on the market for alcohol, another important consideration is the impact that increased alcohol consumption and, more specifically, probable alcohol misuse would have on other markets in Iceland. The only available study on this subject using Icelandic data yields surprising results. Tómasson et al. (Scand J Public Health 32:47–... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2435787 Sun, 24 May 2009 06:09:49 +0100 2435787 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2421896&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F8x5u7017176k8456%2F Abstract  The potential of secondary prevention measures, such as cancer screening, to produce cost savings in the healthcare sector is a controversial issue in healthcare economics. Potential savings are calculated by comparing treatment costs with the cost of a prevention program. When survivors’ subsequent unrelated health care costs are included in the calculation, however, the overall cost of disease prevention rises. What have not been studied to date are the secondary effects of fatal disease prevention measures on social security systems. From the perspective of a policy maker responsible for a social security system budget, it is not only future healthcare costs that are relevant for budgeting, but also changes in the contributions to, and expenditures from, stat... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2421896 Sun, 17 May 2009 06:53:54 +0100 2421896 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2421897&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fy411133484600046%2F The objective of this paper is to analyze interdependencies between cigarette and alcohol consumption in rural China, using panel data for 10 years (1994–2003) for rural areas of 26 Chinese provinces. There have been many studies in which cigarette and alcohol consumption have been considered separately but few to date for China on interactions between the consumption of these two products. Taxes are often recommended as a tool to reduce alcohol and cigarette consumption. If cigarettes and alcohol are complements, taxing one will reduce the consumption of both and thus achieve a double public health dividend. However, if they are substitutes, taxing one will induce consumers to increase consumption of the other, offsetting the public health benefits of the tax. Our results ind... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2421897 Sun, 17 May 2009 06:53:53 +0100 2421897 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2411806&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F280366456301g168%2F Abstract  Length of stay (LOS) in hospital for inpatient treatment is a measure of crucial recovery time. Using nationwide data on inpatient healthcare in India, a three-component finite mixture negative binomial model was found to provide a reasonable fit to the heterogeneous LOS distribution. Associated risk factors for short-stay, medium-stay and long-stay subgroups were identified from the respective negative binomial components. In addition, significant heterogeneities within each group were also found. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0153-6Authors Chungkham Holendro Singh, North-Eastern Hill University Department of Statistics Umshing, Mawkynroh Shillong 793022 Meghalaya IndiaLaishram Ladusingh, International Institute for P... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2411806 Mon, 11 May 2009 05:32:22 +0100 2411806 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2411808&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fh057710656789jw3%2F The objective of this study was to evaluate incremental cost-utility of total knee replacement (TKR) versus unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) of the medial compartment. A 2-year non-randomised prospective observational cohort study was conducted in unicompartmental knee osteoarthritis patients scheduled for TKR (n = 431) or UKA (n = 102). Costs were identified using administrative databases and health outcomes were measured using the SF-36 and the Oxford knee score (OKS) 1 week before, 6 months after, and 2 years after surgery. The incremental cost-utility ratio (ICUR) for TKR versus UKA was calculated and its 95% confidence interval estimated using a nonparametric bootstrapping technique. Cost-effectiv... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2411808 Sun, 10 May 2009 05:44:57 +0100 2411808 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2411807&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fr0x5q7wv452430t3%2F Abstract  Among 55–64 year olds, poor health is a reason for leaving the labour market early within the framework of schemes such as not only Early Retirement for Certain Employees (or Early Retirement for Asbestos Workers), but also by absence from the workforce (sick pay and disability pensions, respectively). It is interesting to single out the controlling factors for participation in or absence from the labour market after 50 and the link between poor health and employment status. The prevalence of functional limitations in everyday activities leads to a more pronounced exclusion of those over 50 years old from the labour market. Some of those aged between 55 and 59 on disability benefits become unemployed and do not look for work; in other words, they are potent... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2411807 Sun, 10 May 2009 05:44:57 +0100 2411807 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2338534&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fv6314525106w4075%2F Abstract  Recently the Portuguese Government announced the launching of public–private partnerships (PPPs) to build hospitals with the distinctive feature that infrastructure construction and clinical activities management will be awarded to separate private parties. Also, one of the parties will be in charge of providing soft facilities. We explore alternative configurations of contracts and assess whether the equilibrium allocations attain the first-best solution. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0152-7Authors Pedro Pita Barros, Universidade Nova de Lisboa Faculdade de Economia Campus de Campolide 1099-032 Lisboa PortugalXavier Martinez-Giralt, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona CODE and Departament d’Economia Edifici B 08193... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2338534 Thu, 09 Apr 2009 09:36:50 +0100 2338534 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2321124&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fj480520231265v1n%2F Abstract  Considerable support for the use of person trade-off methods to assess the quality-adjustment factor in quality-adjusted life years (QALY) models has been expressed in the literature. The WHO has occasionally used similar methods to assess the disability weights for calculation of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). This paper discusses the theoretical support for the use of person trade-offs in QALY-type measurement of (changes in) population health. It argues that measures of this type based on such quality-adjustment factors almost always violate the Pareto principle, and so lack normative justification. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0150-9Authors Lars Peter Østerdal, University of Copenhagen Department of Eco... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2321124 Thu, 02 Apr 2009 05:52:06 +0100 2321124 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2294156&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fw5552lp32031m847%2F Abstract  Injury accidents occurring in the home, during educational, sports or leisure activities were estimated from samples of hospital data, combined with fatality data from vital statistics. Uncertainty of estimated figures was assessed in simulation-based analysis. Total economic costs to society from injuries and fatalities due to such accidents were estimated at approximately NOK 150 billion per year. The estimated costs reveal the scale of the public health problem and lead to arguments for the establishment of a proper injury register for the identification of preventive measures to reduce the costs to society. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0149-2Authors Knut Veisten, Institute of Transport Economics Gaustadallee... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2294156 Wed, 25 Mar 2009 06:50:03 +0100 2294156 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2281680&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F10h433345887jq8k%2F Conclusions  Over both the 2-year and the 10-year time horizon, sirolimus-based immunosuppression represents a cost-effective option in renal transplantation in Germany. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0148-3Authors Jan Steffen Jürgensen, Charité-Universitaetsmedizin Berlin Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care Campus Virchow Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1 13353 Berlin GermanyWolfgang Arns, Kliniken der Stadt Köln GmbH Cologne GermanyBastian Haß, IMS HEALTH GmbH & Co. OHG Health Economics and Outcomes Research Nuremberg Germany Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2281680 Fri, 20 Mar 2009 09:53:52 +0100 2281680 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2281682&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F560840136141649r%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory CommentaryDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0147-4Authors Holger Schünemann, McMaster University Health Sciences Centre Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics Room 2C10B, 1200 Main Street West Hamilton ON L8N 3Z5 CanadaRegina Kunz, McMaster University Health Sciences Centre Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics Room 2C10B, 1200 Main Street West Hamilton ON L8N 3Z5 CanadaYngve Falck-Ytter, McMaster University Health Sciences Centre Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics Room 2C10B, 1200 Main Street West Hamilton ON L8N 3Z5 CanadaNancy Santesso, McMaster University Health Sciences Centre Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics Room 2C10B, 1200 Main Street West Hamilton ON L8N 3Z5 Canada Journal ... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2281682 Tue, 17 Mar 2009 07:05:44 +0100 2281682 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2267282&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fx07550g7n5ux8460%2F Abstract  A moral hazard problem was investigated by analysing the individual behaviour of female and male employees with regard to utilisation of sickness insurance in connection with perceived job security. It was hypothesised that employees with a higher perceived job security take more frequent sickness absence. Perceived higher job security is indicated by three variables, namely a permanent job contract, no unemployment history, and native ethnicity. The effect of perceived job security is expected to be stronger on short-term than on long-term sickness absence, since a medical certificate is required for the latter. Public health survey data from Stockholm County, Sweden, covering the year 2002 was used. Using logistic regression analyses separately for short- and lo... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2267282 Fri, 13 Mar 2009 10:13:16 +0100 2267282 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2239076&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg2q83t33765tw041%2F Abstract  Little is known about costs related to the surveillance of patients that have undergone curative resection of colorectal cancer. The aim of this study was to calculate the observed surveillance costs for 385 patients followed-up over a 3-year period, to estimate surveillance costs if French guidelines are respected, and to identify the determinants related to surveillance costs to derive a global estimation for France, using a linear mixed model. The observed mean surveillance cost was € 713. If French recommendations were strictly applied, the estimated mean cost would vary between € 680 and € 1,069 according to the frequency of abdominal ultrasound. The predicted determinants of cost were: age, recurrence, duration of surveillance... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2239076 Wed, 04 Mar 2009 16:22:04 +0100 2239076 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2239077&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fw3157308n53m0246%2F Abstract  This paper develops a welfare theoretic foundation for cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) when survival is not affected. With this foundation, all costs and their corresponding utility-terms should be included. A key question, though, is whether these utility-terms are consistent with quality-adjusted life year (QALY) (utility) theory or not. The results show that health care costs and changes in the utility of health should be included. However, as QALYs do not capture the utility of changes in consumption (as this utility must be independent of health, according to QALY theory), the corresponding changes in consumption costs should be excluded. Regarding the costs for changes in absence from work, these should only be included if the utility of changes in the amo... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2239077 Tue, 03 Mar 2009 10:59:44 +0100 2239077 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2186796&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ffm6173782705612q%2F Abstract   Vita brevis, ars longa (or...life is too short for abstracts). Content Type Journal ArticleCategory EditorialDOI 10.1007/s10198-009-0143-8Authors Carl Hampus Lyttkens, Lund University Department of Economics P.O. Box 7082 220 07 Lund Sweden Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2186796 Fri, 13 Feb 2009 08:12:10 +0100 2186796 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2086493&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F75207j82472541nx%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory CommentaryDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0142-1Authors Klaus Koch, Institut für Qualität und Wirtschaftlichkeit im Gesundheitswesen (IQWiG), Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care Dillenburger Straße 27 51105 Cologne GermanyStefan Lange, Institut für Qualität und Wirtschaftlichkeit im Gesundheitswesen (IQWiG), Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care Dillenburger Straße 27 51105 Cologne Germany Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2086493 Sat, 03 Jan 2009 06:52:50 +0100 2086493 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2072882&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F532154p6331k8323%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory EditorialDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0141-2Authors Claude Le Pen, University of Paris-Dauphine 75016 Paris France Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2072882 Thu, 01 Jan 2009 06:51:40 +0100 2072882 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2059594&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fb4x52x0655607611%2F Abstract  Opioid analgesics are known to impact on the central nervous system (CNS). These CNS side effects, such as dizziness and confusion, have been shown to lead to an increased risk of falling with subsequent fractures in elderly patients being treated with opioids. The risk of experiencing fractures has been shown to be dependent on the substance administered. Therefore, a health economic model was developed to investigate the cost-effectiveness of the most commonly used strong opiods in Germany, focussing on opioid-related fractures. By means of a Markov model, the consequences of hip, spine and forearm fractures due to the prior administration of transdermal (TD) buprenorphine, TD fentanyl, oral oxycodone as well as oral morphine were assessed from the perspectives ... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2059594 Sun, 21 Dec 2008 08:21:02 +0100 2059594 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2039110&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fb1718672574kk664%2F Abstract  To curb the heavily increasing drug budgets some Danish counties have introduced voluntary agreements between general practitioners (GPs) and health authorities. We extend the models of generic prescription by Hellerstein (Rand J Econ 29(1):108–136, 1998) and Lundin (J Health Econ 19:639–662, 2000) to allow for substitution between analogues and use difference-in-difference models to assess the effect on two drug groups (lipid-lowering and rheumatism drugs). For both drug groups we find evidence of a significant effect of the intervention. In the case of lipid-lowering drugs, we found a significant larger impact on GPs with low loyalty to the insurer and with indication of low prescription quality. In contrast we found that the intervention had a significantly... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2039110 Sun, 14 Dec 2008 09:16:17 +0100 2039110 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2032431&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn5876121t516wg80%2F Conclusions  Overall, the agreement between questionnaires scores was quite low, whilst the correlation level was good. Questionnaire scores were influenced by socio-demographic and clinical variables in a similar way, especially SF6D and EQ5D. Therefore, the descriptive capacity of SF6D and EQ5D was found to be similar. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0139-9Authors Cecilia Quercioli, University of Siena Department of Public Health Via Aldo Moro 53100 Siena ItalyGabriele Messina, University of Siena Department of Public Health Via Aldo Moro 53100 Siena ItalyEmanuela Barbini, University of Siena Department of Public Health Via Aldo Moro 53100 Siena ItalyGiovanni Carriero, General Practice, Local Health Authority 7 Siena ItalyMar... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2032431 Wed, 10 Dec 2008 07:56:48 +0100 2032431 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2016381&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F147v088717qg8884%2F Abstract  Worldwide obesity rates have stimulated interest in healthy dietary patterns. One well-known dietary pattern is the Mediterranean diet, which has been linked with several beneficial health effects. However, concerns have also been raised regarding the Mediterranean diet’s role in promoting weight gain. We explored the effect of the Mediterranean diet on body mass index using the propensity score matching approach. We found no statistically significant average treatment effect on the treated and therefore cannot confirm that a causal link exists between Mediterranean diet and body mass index. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0138-xAuthors Andreas C. Drichoutis, Agricultural University of Athens Laboratory of Political E... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2016381 Fri, 05 Dec 2008 09:18:34 +0100 2016381 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1995678&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fy273205058277242%2F Abstract  Health expenditure data are known to be afflicted by restricted range, zero values, skewness and kurtosis. Several methods for modelling such data have been suggested in the literature to cope with these problems. This paper compares the performance of several alternative estimators, including two-part models and generalised linear models. The dependent variable is household expenditure on health care in Greece, a country where out-of-pocket health expenditure is higher than anywhere else in the European Union, whether as a proportion of GDP, as a share of all health spending, or in per capita terms. To facilitate comparison of model performance, household health expenditure is examined in two different specifications: expenditure on all health care (where zero va... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1995678 Thu, 27 Nov 2008 09:21:09 +0100 1995678 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1989477&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fb079324675853823%2F In conclusion, the costs of mental illness in Spain make a considerable economic impact from a societal perspective. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0135-0Authors Juan Oliva-Moreno, Universidad de Castilla la Mancha and FEDEA Facultad de Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales de Toledo, Análisis Económico y Finanzas Cobertizo de San Pedro Mártir s/n 45071 Toledo SpainJulio López-Bastida, Evaluation and Planning Services, Canary Island Health Services Canary Islands SpainAngel Luis Montejo-González, Universidad de Salamanca Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, Faculty of Medicine Salamanca SpainRubén Osuna-Guerrero, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED) Madrid SpainBeatriz Duque-González, Evaluation and Planning Services, Canary... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1989477 Tue, 25 Nov 2008 06:48:56 +0100 1989477 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1974313&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn36j2787xg073248%2F Abstract  Socioeconomic factors are one of the main determinants of health inequalities. However, which component of socioeconomic status affects health most and how that relationship should be measured remains an open question. The aim of this study was to compare material and social deprivation indexes in order to determine which better explains health inequalities within an urban area. Following a review of the literature on small area deprivation indexes, a case study of the Italian city Genoa is presented. The city of Genoa is split into 71 small areas [urbanistic units (UU)], each of which has about 9,500 inhabitants. For each small area, socioeconomic indicators were extracted from the 2001 Census, whereas health indicators were computed from the death registry for 2... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1974313 Wed, 19 Nov 2008 08:01:48 +0100 1974313 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1974314&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fh8412713620k5254%2F We present a retrospective matched-pairs analysis of mortality, length of stay, and cost of MRSA patients based mainly on routine administrative data from 11 German hospitals. Our results show that MRSA patients stay in hospital 11 days longer, exhibit 7% higher mortality, are 7% more likely to undergo mechanical ventilation, and cause significantly higher total costs (€ 8,198). Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0132-3Authors Ansgar Resch, Im Nonnengarten 49 67098 Bad Dürkheim GermanyMichael Wilke, Dr. Wilke GmbH Werner-Eckert-Str. 12 81829 Munich GermanyChristian Fink, Rambøll Management GmbH Saarbrücker Straße 20/21 10405 Berlin Germany Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISS... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1974314 Tue, 18 Nov 2008 08:01:12 +0100 1974314 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1967937&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fh7374173567g2874%2F Abstract  This paper analyses the application of hybrid risk adjustment versus either prospective or concurrent risk adjustment formulae in the context of funding pharmaceutical benefits for the population of an integrated healthcare delivery organisation in Catalonia during years 2002 and 2003. We apply a mixed formula and find that, compared to prospective only models, a hybrid risk adjustment model increases incentives for efficiency in the provision for low risk individuals in health organisations, not only as a whole but also within each internal department, by reducing within-group variation of drug expenditures. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0133-2Authors Manuel García-Goñi, Universidad Complutense de Madrid Departamen... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1967937 Sun, 16 Nov 2008 11:32:55 +0100 1967937 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1954799&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F585040j9u716453v%2F This study shows that the health and social care costs for infants with GBS disease is, on average, two-fold higher during the first 2 years of life than for infants without GBS disease. These data should be used to inform policy decisions regarding the cost-effectiveness of prevention and treatment strategies for GBS disease during early childhood. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0131-4Authors Elizabeth-Ann Schroeder, University of Oxford National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit Old Road Campus, Old Road, Headington Oxford OX3 7LF UKStavros Petrou, University of Oxford National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit Old Road Campus, Old Road, Headington Oxford OX3 7LF UKGail Balfour, St George’s, University of London Division of Child Health Cranme... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1954799 Tue, 11 Nov 2008 07:56:44 +0100 1954799 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1944819&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F217585635q3j3921%2F In this report, ‘the institute’ is used when the text refers to any of these institutes. The legal framework for benefit assessments is laid out in the German Social Code Book version V (http://www.sozialgesetzbuch.de), Sects. 35b (§ 1), 139a (§ 4–6) and Sect. 139b (§ 3). It is specified that: •  The institute must guarantee high transparency. •  The institute must provide appropriate participation of relevant parties for the commission-related development of assessments, and opportunity for comment on all important segments of the assessment procedure. •  The institute has to report on the progress and results of the work at regular intervals. •  The institute is held to giving the commission to external exp... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1944819 Thu, 06 Nov 2008 07:04:50 +0100 1944819 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1944821&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F984765515972u4jk%2F Abstract  Health systems throughout the world are increasingly concerned with the evaluation of the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of pharmaceuticals (and health technologies more generally), in order to enhance the extent to which scarce health resources are used efficiently. Regulatory processes designed to demonstrate efficacy, quality and safety are added to the concept of efficiency or value for money. These regulatory processes serve to identify and ensure that a product does indeed have a therapeutic effect; that it is manufactured to acceptable standards; and that it does not bring undue hazard to patients with use. A subsequent appraisal process considers if and where society might rationally bring the intervention into usage. It may be efficient for a health... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1944821 Thu, 06 Nov 2008 07:04:49 +0100 1944821 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1944820&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fh24440v7v16j727g%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory EditorialDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0130-5Authors Thomas Müller, Federal Joint Committee (Gemeinsamer Bundesausschuss) Pharmaceuticals Department Siegburg Germany Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 Journal Volume Volume 9 Journal Issue Volume 9, Supplement 1 / November, 2008 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1944820 Thu, 06 Nov 2008 07:04:49 +0100 1944820 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1900391&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F163l371114354642%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory EditorialDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0129-yAuthors Andrea Marshall, University of Warwick, Coventry Warwick Clinical Trials Unit Gibbet Hill Road Coventry CV4 7AL UKLucinda J. Billingham, University of Birmingham Cancer Research UK Clinical Trials Unit Birmingham UKStirling Bryan, University of Birmingham Health Economics Facility Birmingham UK Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1900391 Tue, 21 Oct 2008 06:13:04 +0100 1900391 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1879326&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fe743716771143p7q%2F The objective of this study was to identify factors affecting COPD-related costs. A cohort of 179 subjects with COPD was interviewed over the telephone on four occasions about their annual use of COPD-related resources. The data set and explanatory variables were analysed by means of multivariate regression techniques for six different types of cost: societal (or total), direct (health care) and indirect (productivity), and three subcomponents of direct costs—hospitalisation, outpatient and medication. Poor lung function, dyspnoea and asthma were independently associated with higher costs. Poor lung function (severity of COPD) significantly increased all six examined cost types. Dyspnoea (breathing problems) also increased costs, though to a varying extent. The presence of reporte... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1879326 Tue, 14 Oct 2008 11:24:47 +0100 1879326 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1810997&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fqn24g51j14171046%2F Abstract  The Treating to New Targets (TNT) clinical trial found that intensive 80 mg atorvastatin (A80) treatment reduced cardiovascular events by 22% when compared to 10 mg atorvastatin (A10) treatment. We evaluated the cost-effectiveness of intensive A80 vs A10 treatment in the United Kingdom (UK), Spain, and Germany. A lifetime Markov model was developed to predict cardiovascular disease-related events, costs, survival, and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). Treatment-specific event probabilities were estimated from the TNT clinical trial. Post-event survival, health-related quality of life, and country-specific medical-care costs were estimated using published sources. Intensive treatment with A80 increased both the per-patient QALYs and corresponding costs... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1810997 Thu, 18 Sep 2008 06:37:53 +0100 1810997 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1793829&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fxx12286w5667w28r%2F Abstract  This paper estimates the financial cost of skin cancer in England. National Health Service (NHS) costs were calculated by combining published data on health service use by patients with skin cancer with published data on the unit cost of services. Indirect costs arising from individuals’ inability to function in their usual role as a result of skin cancer were estimated from incapacity benefit claims and numbers of registered deaths due to skin cancer. The total costs of skin cancer were around £240 million. Costs to the NHS represented 42% of the total. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0127-0Authors S. Morris, Health Economics Research Group Brunel University LondonB. Cox, Imperial College Tanaka Business School, Sou... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1793829 Sat, 13 Sep 2008 08:11:01 +0100 1793829 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1785569&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fa83l0l2689j64106%2F Abstract  The determinants for per capita general practitioner (GP) public expenditure across Danish municipalities are analysed using data from the period 1997–2004. Heterogeneity and dependency across years are controlled for. Spatial spillover effects across municipalities are investigated in order to disclose the spatial dynamics of public GP expenditure. The results reveal substantial heterogeneity and dependency across time, as well as the presence of a significant spatial spillover effect. The effects of determinants are seriously over-estimated if such features are ignored. The spatial coefficient is strongly significant and suggests that there is an indirect effect on expenditure of non-observable variables that are geographically concentrated. Content Type Jou... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1785569 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 08:32:42 +0100 1785569 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1785568&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Ft0p8t557427r3960%2F The objective of this study was to identify factors that influence the decision whether or not to get the influenza (flu) vaccine among nurses in Israel by using the health belief model (HBM). A questionnaire distributed among 299 nurses in Israel in winter 2005/2006 included (1) socio-demographic information; (2) variables based on the HBM, including susceptibility, seriousness, benefits, barriers and cues to action; and (3) knowledge about influenza and the vaccine, and health motivation. A probit model was used to analyze the data. In Israel, the significant HBM categories affecting nurses’ decision to get a flu shot are the perceived benefits from vaccination and cues to action. In addition, nurses who are vaccinated have higher levels of (1) knowledge regarding the vaccine and... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1785568 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 08:32:42 +0100 1785568 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1722926&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn525871x13432m76%2F Abstract  We investigate a health care market with uncertainty in a mixed duopoly, where a partially privatized public hospital competes against a private hospital in terms of quality choice. We use a simple Hotelling-type spatial competition model by incorporating mean–variance analysis and the framework of partial privatization. We show how the variance in the quality perceived by patients affects the true quality of medical care provided by hospitals. In addition, we show that a case exists in which the quality of the partially privatized hospital becomes higher than that of the private hospital when the patient’s preference for quality is relatively high. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0120-7Authors Yasuo Sanjo, Nagoya ... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1722926 Tue, 19 Aug 2008 21:03:21 +0100 1722926 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1685744&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fu035721hq56ng743%2F Abstract  Activity-based funding of hospital services has been introduced progressively since 2003 in the National Health Service (NHS) in England, under the name ‘Payment by Results’ (PbR). It represents a major change from previous funding arrangements based on annual “block” payments for large bundles of services. We interviewed senior local NHS managers about their experience and expectations of the impact of PbR. A high degree of ‘NHS solidarity’ was apparent, and competition between NHS hospitals was muted. PbR has been introduced against a background of numerous other efficiency incentives, and managers did not detect a further PbR-specific boost to efficiency. No impact on care quality, either positive or negative, is yet evident. Content Type Journal ... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1685744 Tue, 05 Aug 2008 07:11:55 +0100 1685744 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1670921&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fm13mup18hkt72858%2F This study examines the fairness concept of health care professionals, and asks whether they are willing to use a patient’s age and other potential fairness characteristics rather than health benefits as relevant arguments in the allocation of health care resources? The patient characteristics in the health care professionals’ survey encompass age, productivity and lifestyle. The study is a replication of a much older study from the 1970s. The present study finds that the understanding of fairness among health care professionals differs from concepts of fairness in legislation. The status of various patient characteristics as rationing arguments has remained much the same, although nowadays health care professionals are expected to be more aware of moral dimensions and also legis... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1670921 Wed, 30 Jul 2008 08:14:01 +0100 1670921 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1670922&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fd837kv7366175286%2F The objective of this study was to experimentally examine by means of an information manipulation if respondents are adhering to the utility theory axiom of utility maximisation. A repeated measure experimental design was used. Assessments were conducted pre- and post-intervention with self-administered questionnaires. The study participants were 158 (142 after exclusions) first year undergraduate students, Bangor University (UK). The intervention—information manipulation—did not induce the hypothesised changes in the perceived pros and cons of, or desire for, genetic testing and counselling for breast cancer; correlation revealed a weak relationship between the pros and cons of and desire for testing and counselling. We conclude that there was no evidence of utility maximisation... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1670922 Wed, 30 Jul 2008 08:13:59 +0100 1670922 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1615164&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fq170383456521528%2F Abstract  The structure and methods to complete and derive a quality score from the European Network of Health Economic Evaluation Databases (EURONHEED) transferability information checklists for published economic evaluations were reported and discussed in a previous paper (Boulenger et al. in Eur J Health Econ 6, 334–346, 2005). Within the same paper, the use of the checklists was illustrated through their application to a sample of economic evaluations conducted in France and UK. The transferability information subchecklist, consisting of 16 items from the original 42-point checklist, and methods used to derive it, were validated among 16 health economists across Europe participating in the EURONHEED project. Recent correspondence with other researchers, however, indic... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1615164 Fri, 11 Jul 2008 06:55:40 +0100 1615164 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1615165&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fl12652w313421t4q%2F We examined both pecuniary and non-pecuniary factors that may be associated with nurses’ labor supply. We approximated a classical labor supply model and calculated the wage elasticities of hours of work and participation. Even though the wage elasticity was quite small, the effect on the hours supplied was significant. However, wages alone may not sufficiently increase the labor supply from the current stock of nurses; other elements, such as contractual conditions, seem to play an important role as well. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0116-3Authors T. Kankaanranta, University of Tampere Tampere School of Public Health 33014 Tampere FinlandP. Rissanen, University of Tampere Tampere School of Public Health 33014 Tampere Finland J... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1615165 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 07:25:00 +0100 1615165 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1536321&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F93vr678637x74kh3%2F Abstract  In Italy the price setting of medicines reimbursed by the National Health Service is regulated at the central level by AIFA, the national regulatory authority. Prices of non reimbursed medicines are indeed freely established, with some limitations, by pharmaceutical companies. To contain pharmaceutical expenditure and rationalise the whole sector the following measures have been introduced in the past years: a threshold to public pharmaceutical expenditure (PPE); a reference price system (RPS) for off-patent medicines; a pay-back mechanism as an alternative to price cut. In 2008 Italy launched a reform of the pharmaceutical expenditure governance system with the aim to introduce stability and promote development and competitiveness in the pharmaceutical sector. ... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1536321 Fri, 20 Jun 2008 07:04:23 +0100 1536321 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1517947&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fp3702g727h85374t%2F Abstract  The Australian government implemented a series of private health insurance (PHI) policy reforms between 1997 and 2000. As a result, the proportion of the population with PHI coverage increased by more than 35%. However, this study found significant evidence that the policy reform disproportionately favours high-income earners. In particular, the 30% premium subsidy represents a windfall gain for households which would have purchased PHI even without the rebate. The amount of such gain is estimated to be around $900 million per year, a large proportion of which went to higher income households. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0111-8Authors Alfons Palangkaraya, The University of Melbourne Melbourne Institute of Applied Ec... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1517947 Thu, 12 Jun 2008 06:24:36 +0100 1517947 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1507133&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fu361333hw68552w8%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory EditorialDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0113-6Authors Livio Garattini, “Mario Negri” Institute for Pharmacological Research CESAV, Centre for Health Economics Ranica (Bg) ItalyGianluigi Casadei, “Mario Negri” Institute for Pharmacological Research CESAV, Centre for Health Economics Ranica (Bg) Italy Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1507133 Tue, 10 Jun 2008 06:36:14 +0100 1507133 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1493959&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fm768x4117t371540%2F This study compared market prices (i.e. third-party reimbursement and patient co-payment) of prefabricated neck, wrist and knee braces in Belgium, France, the Netherlands, Ontario (Canada) and the UK. Data were collected through contacts with health authorities, health insurance funds, manufacturers and distributors. Market prices varied substantially between countries, indicating that manufacturers adapt their price setting strategy to the policy environment and the structure of the brace market of a country. Belgian prices tended to exceed prices in other countries for the selected neck, wrist and knee braces. There seems to be scope for reducing Belgian prices of selected braces. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0112-7Authors Steven Sim... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1493959 Tue, 03 Jun 2008 06:19:50 +0100 1493959 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1493960&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fdw621054m3j65193%2F Abstract  A contingent valuation approach to assess the health effects of chemical pesticides among Nicaraguan vegetable farmers is presented. Farmers’ valuation of health is measured as their willingness to pay (WTP) for low-toxicity pesticides. Results show that farmers are willing to spend an additional amount of about 28% of current pesticide expenditure for avoiding health risks. The validity of results is established in scope tests and with a two-step regression model. WTP depends on farmers’ experience with poisoning, income variables, and current exposure to pesticides. The results can help in designing rural health policies and in the formulation of programmes aiming to reduce the negative effects of pesticides. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original P... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1493960 Tue, 03 Jun 2008 06:19:49 +0100 1493960 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1466709&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F935376262134m30m%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory EditorialDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0109-2Authors Bengt Jönsson, Stockholm School of Economics Stockholm Sweden Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1466709 Thu, 22 May 2008 05:52:54 +0100 1466709 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1431470&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fd2xmn14p24158442%2F This article reports the results of a study that questioned 131 respondents to a time trade-off (TTO) interview about their assumptions concerning consumption and the amount of thought given to consumption. Results indicate that, without prompting, most assumed unchanged consumption, implying little bias in existing studies. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original paperDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0107-4Authors Jeff Richardson, Monash University Centre for Health Economics Building 75 Melbourne VIC 3800 AustraliaStuart J. Peacock, Monash University Centre for Health Economics Building 75 Melbourne VIC 3800 AustraliaAngelo Iezzi, Monash University Centre for Health Economics Building 75 Melbourne VIC 3800 Australia Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1431470 Tue, 06 May 2008 19:02:40 +0100 1431470 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1414572&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F1uw605q43t527320%2F Conclusions  This analysis demonstrates a cost-effective treatment for patients suffering a cerebrovascular event with a blood pressure lowering regimen. The findings of this study are in line with current decisions and guidance by the national institute for health and clinical excellence (NICE) in England. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original paperDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0108-3Authors Manouchehr Tavakoli, University of St Andrews School of Management St Andrews KY16 9SS UKNeil Pumford, Nurseplus Ltd Auchterarder UKMark Woodward, Mount Sinai Medical School New York USAAlex Doney, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School Dundee UKJohn Chalmers, University of Sydney The George Institute Sydney AustraliaStephen MacMahon, University of Sydney The George Institute Sydn... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1414572 Wed, 30 Apr 2008 07:27:02 +0100 1414572 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1401862&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F31l5484772984j06%2F This study assessed the quality of life (QoL) of Palestinians living in conditions of chronic conflict and examined its determinants. An adapted World Health Organization quality of life (WHOQoL-Bref) instrument was used in a representative sample of 1,008 adults. Factor analysis and multiple regression were conducted to determine associations between demographic and socioeconomic characteristics and scores of extracted principal determinants, and estimated overall and domain-specific QoL scores. Men, older persons and those less educated reported lower QoL than their counterparts. Negative associations were also found with higher distress and fear levels, and lower financial and freedom status. The chronic and entrenched conflict over generations resulted in lower QoL for the popula... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1401862 Fri, 25 Apr 2008 09:09:29 +0100 1401862 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1401861&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fb50jp373616163w6%2F Abstract  We compared the willingness-to-pay and willingness to give up time methods to assess preferences for digital subtraction angiography (DSA), computed tomography angiography (CTA) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). Respondents were hypertensive patients suspected of having renal artery stenosis. Data were gathered using telephone interviews. Both the willingness-to-pay and willingness to give up time methods revealed that patients preferred CTA to MRA in order to avoid DSA. The agreement between willingness-to-pay and willingness to give up time responses was high (kappa 0.65–0.85). The willingness-to-pay method yielded relatively more protest answers (12%) as compared to willingness to give up time (2%). So, our results provided evidence for the comparabil... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1401861 Fri, 25 Apr 2008 09:09:29 +0100 1401861 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1401863&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F11544r6x39513116%2F This study used a decision analytic model approach to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of linezolid versus vancomycin in the empirical treatment of complicated skin and soft-tissue infection (cSSTI) due to suspected methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) from the German hospital and health care system perspective. Clinical probabilities were obtained from trial data, resource utilisation and MRSA prevalence rates were obtained through German physician interviews, and costs from published sources were applied to resource units. Outcomes included total cost/patient and cure. The estimated first-line cure rate for linezolid-treated patients was 90.1% versus 85.5% for vancomycin; total cure rates after two lines of treatment were 98.4% and 98.1%, respectively. Average total cos... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1401863 Fri, 25 Apr 2008 08:10:30 +0100 1401863 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1362184&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fb324w6508872763w%2F Conclusion  This study is among the first to evaluate the impact of BBA and BBRA on hospital services. These acts had a negative effect on the ability of hospitals to continue offering safety-net services and negatively affected LOS. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original paperDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0103-8Authors Mustafa Z. Younis, Jackson State University School of Health Sciences 350 West Woodrow Wilson Drive Jackson MS 39213 USADana A. Forgione, University of Texas at San Antonio College of Business One UTSA Circle San Antonio TX 78249-0632 USA Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1362184 Tue, 08 Apr 2008 07:26:14 +0100 1362184 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1345889&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fqqrr5v3814234637%2F Abstract  The study determines the cost–utility of a unilateral electronic knee prosthesis (C-leg) compared to mechanical alternatives in trans-femoral amputees. For each type of prosthesis, 50 patients, treated in a major Italian centre, were enrolled. Quality adjusted life years (QALYs) were estimated from responses to EuroQol (EQ-5D). Healthcare and social costs were assessed for the estimated life cycle of the technologies (5 years). C-leg was associated with 0.09 more QALYs per patient per year (P = 0.007). For the 5-year period, the incremental cost–utility ratio of C-leg resulted in € 35,971 per QALY from the healthcare system perspective. If non-healthcare costs and productivity losses are included, the two groups to have similar costs (&#8364... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1345889 Tue, 01 Apr 2008 07:01:51 +0100 1345889 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1345890&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fg79l05pu32634u43%2F Conclusion  Based on the health-economic evaluation, the authors recommend the continuation of the general recommendation of PCV7 according to the 3 + 1 schedule within the German Statutory Health Insurance. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original paperDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0098-1Authors Christa Claes, Leibniz University of Hannover Centre for Health Economics and Health System Research Hannover GermanyRalf René Reinert, University Hospital RWTH Aachen Institute of Medical Microbiology, National Reference Centre for Streptococci Aachen GermanyJohann-Matthias Graf von der Schulenburg, Leibniz University of Hannover Centre for Health Economics and Health System Research Hannover Germany Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1345890 Tue, 01 Apr 2008 07:01:49 +0100 1345890 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1331103&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fm7025405243v2r47%2F Abstract   Since hepatitis A has been largely eliminated as an endemic disease in Germany, the main risk of the disease now comes from holiday travel to countries with a high prevalence of hepatitis A. Starting from the age group specific new disease rate for the year 1998, a dynamic model is first drawn up of the effect of travel immunization against HAV in those aged 15–44 years, as the main group of travelers, and of the future demographic trends in Germany on the incidence trend over a study period of three times 10 years. An analysis is carried out of the epidemiological and economic significance of what is currently under discussion, i.e., additional group immunization of adolescents aged 11–15 years against hepatitis, in the same way as hepatitis B immunization,... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1331103 Tue, 25 Mar 2008 19:07:05 +0100 1331103 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1331102&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fd2x4x60m6240g782%2F Abstract   We reviewed information published between 1990 and March 2001 to ascertain trends in the utilisation of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) and to determine the availability of cost data. Our review encompassed Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The number of PTCAs increased in all countries studied during the 1990s. While the rate of PTCA use in all European countries lags behind that of the US, Germany and France are approaching the US rate, and the uptake of PTCA among European countries is increasing rapidly after a slow start. With regard to PTCA cost data, direct international comparisons are difficult since patient populations, methodological factors, and the timing and location ... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1331102 Tue, 25 Mar 2008 19:07:05 +0100 1331102 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1331101&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F525342w112254715%2F Abstract   The health policy debate about rationing is often confused by dealing with several different issues concurrently. This contribution introduces a typology and matrix that separates two of the most important of these issues in order to improve the clarity of the debate. The first of these issues, the mode of rationing, concerns how the responsible parties allocate scarce resources. This can be achieved non-systematically, for example, via ad hoc clinical bedside reasoning, or systematically with the aid of rigorously developed and tested algorithms, possibly including elucidated public preferences which trade-off efficiency and equity. The second issue, the transparency of the debate, concerns how the debate is presented, should it happen tacitly being left to the ... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1331101 Tue, 25 Mar 2008 19:07:05 +0100 1331101 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1331100&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fw10518h072454k41%2F The objective of this article is to develop and apply several types of price indexes to the analysis of pharmaceutical expenditure to improve the way traditional indexes adjust for innovation in drug supply. The Laspeyres and Paasche indexes in the fixed and linked modalities were used. Price is defined as average expenditure at consumer price per daily defined dose (DDD). The empirical application is restricted to two therapeutic groups, antipsychotics and antidepressants, and to the pharmaceutical expenditure of the Catalan Health Service in the period 1991–1999. The indexes can be computed from the information currently recorded in the administrative procedures of health care insurers, or from sample information provided by regular market surveys. The proposed method allows for ... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1331100 Tue, 25 Mar 2008 19:07:05 +0100 1331100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1331099&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F6115j0648xw1334t%2F Abstract   The UK government believes that substantial variations in efficiency persist in the National Health Service and has called for improvements in the cost effectiveness of service provision. As part of this general initiative, hospitals have been encouraged to participate in a project designed to compare labour costs in general surgery specialties. This paper analyses these costs, taking into account the scale of operation and mix of output, using econometric techniques and data envelopment analysis. The results produced by these methods are compared as a form of sensitivity analysis. For the majority of general surgery units no evidence is found to support the belief that there are widespread differences in cost efficiency. However, a small number of units appear ... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1331099 Tue, 25 Mar 2008 19:07:05 +0100 1331099 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1331098&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fe21734883537t151%2F This study investigates to what extent physicians accept quality of life (QoL) and economic utility measures as endpoints in clinical studies. It also explores who physicians think should value health states. As part of a European study three different physician groups were surveyed using a standardized mail questionnaire. These surveys were carried out by national random sample in Finland (rendering n=367) and by nonrandom samples in Austria (n=33), and Germany (n=41). Acceptance of utility measurement was classified by a four-level hierarchy. Knowledge of the QoL concept ranged between 30% and 54% in the three samples. QoL was accepted by 72–90% of physicians, a summary index of QoL by 62–80%, its combination with duration by 51–68%, and quality-adjusted life years by 44–61%... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1331098 Tue, 25 Mar 2008 19:07:05 +0100 1331098 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1331097&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fn250847175401705%2F Content Type Journal ArticleDOI 10.1007/s10198-001-0092-3Authors Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 Journal Volume Volume 2 Journal Issue Volume 2, Number 4 / December, 2001 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1331097 Tue, 25 Mar 2008 19:07:05 +0100 1331097 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1331096&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fx177h56132q26506%2F Abstract   To assess the benefits of an integrated hematology system in the day-to-day running of a specialized university hospital laboratory the authors tested the Sysmex HST-330 system. Medical and economic evaluation sought to answer two questions: Does sample automation and use of such a system risk causing information loss prejudicial to patient care? Does it result in time-saving? The HST-330 was compared with the existing laboratory system by subjecting 1030 tubes to each work mode. With no loss of quality in medical results, the HST-330 provided an excellent technical base for the development of an expert system managing environmental data. The larger the batch, the more impressive was the performance of the HST-330 (0.86 min per specimen versus 1.04 min with the ... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1331096 Tue, 25 Mar 2008 19:07:05 +0100 1331096 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1331109&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fk4476lv245030q50%2F    Interdisciplinary and public debates, which may also include lay persons, can serve to develop and discuss basic principles. They help to take medical ethics closer to the patients and reduce the focus on experts. It should also be mentioned that such a highly differentiated field urgently needs an appropriate debating culture. It is also vital to introduce students and physicians to the thinking which underlies medical ethics and to accompany them through their entire professional lives by offering them the right courses. That these may not consist in the typical “learning” experience which normally dominates teaching is self-evident. It is absolutely necessary for the professionals in charge not only to take decisions in accordance with ethical principles but also... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1331109 Tue, 25 Mar 2008 19:07:04 +0100 1331109 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1331108&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fux038375q0004570%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory VariaDOI 10.1007/s101980100051Authors Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 Journal Volume Volume 2 Journal Issue Volume 2, Number 1 / March, 2001 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1331108 Tue, 25 Mar 2008 19:07:04 +0100 1331108 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1331107&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F4065k23408312763%2F Abstract   We performed a cross-sectional, “bottom-up” observational study of resource use, costs, and quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) in Germany. Six centers participated in the study. Patients were asked to complete a questionnaire, and a total of 737 patients returned it (response rate 66%). The questionnaire provided information on all resource consumption, medical, and nonmedical, work absence, informal care related to their MS, and quality of life (EuroQol). Simultaneously, medical charts were also abstracted for a subsample of 202 patients for comparison between answers in the questionnaires and registered data. Levels of disability were assessed using the Expanded Disability Status Scale. The mean age of the cohort was 41.9±14.1 years ... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1331107 Tue, 25 Mar 2008 19:07:04 +0100 1331107 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1331106&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fl5010008g2v868v1%2F Abstract   It seems generally believed that the HUI3 is a more responsive utility measure than the EQ-5D because of the crude level structure of the EQ-5D compared to the HUI3. As empirical evidence to support this hypothesis is lacking, we undertook a study to compare the construct validity of the utility indices of the EQ-5Dindex and the HUI3index in 135 patients treated for congenital anorectal malformation and 57 patients treated for congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Discriminant validity was tested by the ability of the HUI3index and EQ-5Dindex to distinguish clinically relevant subgroups in the patient populations. Convergent validity was tested using Pearson correlations of the HUI3index and the EQ-5Dindex with the symptom scores. In general the index scores were in li... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1331106 Tue, 25 Mar 2008 19:07:04 +0100 1331106 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1331105&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fc4806853067806v7%2F Summary   Patient costs in German hospitals has until recently been calculated mainly by the length of hospital stay. However, in December 1999 the Gesundheitsreform 2000 announced a dramatic change in the social laws. Starting in 2003 a prospective payment system will be introduced based on the classification of the “Australian refined diagnosis-related groups” (AR-DRG). DRGs are already used in many industrialized countries and are basically per case payment systems by group patients with homogeneous average costs based on the diagnoses and procedures performed in the hospital. When preparing for this new system, the clinician has substantial additional tasks. In addition to correctly documenting all clinical findings by the ICD-10 diagnoses and the German OPS301 pro... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1331105 Tue, 25 Mar 2008 19:07:04 +0100 1331105 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1331104&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fv95795585420g816%2F Abstract   This comparative study analyzed the domestic market for domiciliary incontinence pads in five European countries (Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom) according to a common scheme. National legislation, prescription procedures, delivery modalities, and the market situation were considered. The analysis involved reviewing the literature on incontinence devices in national and international journals and interviewing a selected expert panel of market operators in each country, composed of at least one civil servant, one physician, one distributor, and one manufacturer. No specific relationship was found between the health care system framework and the pads market, except for a greater inclination towards home care in national health services. In... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1331104 Tue, 25 Mar 2008 19:07:04 +0100 1331104 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1317406&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fx526r33l559m3516%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory EditorialDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0099-0Authors Dimitrios Rovithis, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Center for Health Services Management and Evaluation Papadiamantopoulou 123 115 27 Athens GreeceLycurgus Liaropoulos, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Center for Health Services Management and Evaluation Papadiamantopoulou 123 115 27 Athens Greece Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1317406 Wed, 19 Mar 2008 12:04:24 +0100 1317406 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1313832&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fp78x347476782833%2F This article focuses on the redistributive effects of different measures to finance public health insurance. We analyse the implications of different financing options for public health insurance on the redistribution of income from good to bad health risks and from high-income to low-income individuals. The financing options considered are either income-related (namely income taxes, payroll taxes, and indirect taxes), health-related (co-insurance, deductibles, and no-claim), or neither (flat fee). We show that governments who treat access to health care as a basic right for everyone should consider redistributive effects when reforming health care financing. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original paperDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0100-yAuthors Ivonne Honekamp, University of Bam... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1313832 Tue, 18 Mar 2008 08:14:30 +0100 1313832 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1307467&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fe30h28604112v562%2F Abstract  The aim of the study was to determine whether the total cost estimate of a hospital service remains reliable when the cost components of bottom-up microcosting were replaced by the cost components of top-down microcosting or gross costing. Total cost estimates were determined in representative general hospitals in the Netherlands for appendectomy, normal delivery, stroke and acute myocardial infarction for 2005. It was concluded that restricting the use of bottom-up microcosting to those cost components that have a great impact on the total costs (i.e., labour and inpatient stay) would likely result in reliable cost estimates. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original paperDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0101-xAuthors S. S. Tan, Erasmus MC University Medical Center... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1307467 Fri, 14 Mar 2008 07:29:05 +0100 1307467 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1293894&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F313w74282v2p8172%2F Abstract  The choice of instrument (e.g. EQ-5D vs. SF-6D) can lead to different health-related utility scores, but it is unclear why these differences arise and whether they change cost utility analysis (CUA) results. This paper addresses these issues using a case study where using SF-6D rather EQ-5D led to greater utility gain and a lower cost per QALY for treatment. The paper examines reasons for this difference. This paper finds that an important factor was the inclusion in the SF-6D descriptive system of separate items for “vitality” and “social functioning”, not explicitly included in EQ-5D. Further studies are required that examine the impact of the choice of instrument on cost-utility. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original paperDOI 10.1007/s10198-00... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1293894 Sun, 09 Mar 2008 06:54:15 +0100 1293894 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1249918&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fv6m171181rw0r220%2F Abstract   Health expenditure in the countries of the European Union has risen faster than gross domestic product (GDP) since 1970, namely by 3.2 percentage points in the 1970s, 0.8 in the 1980s, and 1.2 in the 1990s. When examining factors responsible for health expenditure, the “usual suspects”– which are reviewed in turn – are: demography/ageing, economic growth/rising GDP, health care resources, new technologies and medical progress, and health care system design (especially Bismarck vs. Beveridge). While the impact of ageing is usually overestimated, medical progress will continue to exert its impact on spending. If future health care expenditure will rise faster than GDP by 1 percentage point, the EU average will increase from 8.6% in 1998 to 11.8% in 2030. I... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1249918 Wed, 20 Feb 2008 22:53:18 +0100 1249918 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1249917&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fm2gj106760368660%2F In conclusion, many aspects of HRQOL, as measured by the KHQ, significantly improved with tolterodine IR treatment. These HRQOL improvements were consistent with clinical efficacy results. The findings demonstrate that tolterodine IR patients experience overall improvement in their condition that resulted in important impacts on their HRQOL. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PapersDOI 10.1007/s101980100064Authors A.M. Pleil, Pharmacia Limited, High Wycombe, UK GBP.R. Reese, Strategic Outcomes Services of CareScience, Inc., Research Triangle Park, N.C., USA USC.J. Kelleher, Guy's and St. Thomas' Hospital Trust, London, UK GBG.J. Okano, Strategic Outcomes Services of CareScience, Inc., Research Triangle Park, N.C., USA US Journal The European Journal of Health E... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1249917 Wed, 20 Feb 2008 22:53:18 +0100 1249917 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1249916&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F5447vu1p1jt27731%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Meeting reportDOI 10.1007/s10198-001-0081-6Authors W. Greiner, Hannover DE Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 Journal Volume Volume 2 Journal Issue Volume 2, Number 4 / December, 2001 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1249916 Wed, 20 Feb 2008 22:53:18 +0100 1249916 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1249915&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fdg485n2213145583%2F Content Type Journal ArticleCategory EditorialDOI 10.1007/PL00012219Authors F. Rutten, Institute for Medical Technology Assessment, Erasmus University Rotterdam, The Netherlands NLJ. van Busschbach, Institute for Medical Technology Assessment, Erasmus University Rotterdam, The Netherlands NL Journal The European Journal of Health EconomicsOnline ISSN 1618-7601Print ISSN 1618-7598 Journal Volume Volume 2 Journal Issue Volume 2, Number 2 / June, 2001 (Source: The European Journal of Health Economics) The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1249915 Wed, 20 Feb 2008 22:53:18 +0100 1249915 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1249914&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2Fw6113n4465165471%2F Abstract   The cornerstones of social security within the Finnish health care system are public health care and an insurance system covering drug costs in outpatient care and the services of the private health care sector. The reimbursement system is two-tiered, so that when a wholesales price is approved for a drug, it automatically enters the basic reimbursement category. The acceptance of a medicine into the higher reimbursement categories for serious and long-term illnesses involves a separate legislative process. Compared with OECD countries, the degree of reimbursement is low. The price decision is mainly based on international price comparisons, the price of corresponding products on the market, and the funds the reimbursement system has at its disposal. Since 1998,... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1249914 Wed, 20 Feb 2008 22:53:18 +0100 1249914 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1217677&cid=s_33421_51_f&fid=33421&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.springerlink.com%2Fcontent%2F403t5k65535621l5%2F This study explores the costs of non-malignant chronic pain in patients awaiting treatment in a multidisciplinary pain clinic in a hospital setting. Health care costs due to chronic pain are particular high during the first year after pain onset, and remain high compared with health care costs before pain onset. The majority of chronic pain patients incur the costs of alternative treatments. Chronic pain causes production losses at work, as well as impairment of non-work activities. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original paperDOI 10.1007/s10198-008-0096-3Authors Christian Kronborg, University of Southern Denmark Institute of Public Health, Health Economics Unit J.B. Winsløwsvej 9B 5000 Odense C DenmarkGitte Handberg, Odense University Hospital Funen County Multidisciplinary... The European Journal of Health Economics journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1217677 Thu, 07 Feb 2008 17:56:26 +0100 1217677