A framework for cost-effectiveness analysis from clinical trial data

We present a general Bayesian framework for cost-effectiveness analysis (CE A) from clinical trial data. This framework allows for very flexible modell ing of both cost and efficacy related trial data. A common CEA technique is established for this wide class of models through linking mean efficacy an d mean cost to the parameters of any given model. Examples are given in which efficacy may be measured as a continuous, binar y, ordinal or time-to-event outcome, and in which costs are modelled as dis tributed normally, log-normally, as a mixture or non-parametrically. A case study is presented, illustrating the methodology and illuminating th e role of prior information. Copyright (C) 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.