Microcosting versus DRGs in the provision of cost estimates for use in pharmacoeconomic evaluation. (1st February 2002)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Heerey, Adrienne; McGowan, Bernie; Ryan, Mairin; Barry, Michael
• Is Part Of: Expert review of pharmacoeconomics & outcomes research. Volume 2:Number 1(2002)
• Page Start: 29
• Page End: 33
• Publication Date: 2002-02-01
• Subjects: acute myocardial infarction -- casemix index -- diagnostic related groups -- heart failure -- HIV disease -- pharmacoeconomic evaluation; Pharmacology -- Economic aspects -- Periodicals; 338.47615105
• DOI: 10.1586/14737167.2.1.29
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1473-7167

Abstract

Investigating the pharmacoeconomic impact of any diagnostic or therapeutic intervention in the Irish healthcare setting is currently compromised by the lack of detailed cost data. Consequently, we conducted a number of microcosting studies in the areas of acute myocardial infarction, cardiac failure and HIV, from the hospital perspective. The results of these microcosting studies were compared with the costing estimates assigned to hospital admissions, based on the diagnosis-related group system. Differences ranged from 9 to 66%. It was concluded that the diagnosis related group system is a useful estimate of costs for patient admissions in the absence of detailed cost of illness data. However, supplementary costing studies should be performed for certain therapeutic areas, particularly those where investigation and/or treatment costs are high.